The Penguins placed Ryan Graves on waivers as part of roster cuts ahead of the 2025-26 season.

The Pittsburgh Penguins placed defenseman Ryan Graves on waivers ahead of the 2025-26 season, marking a downturn for the 30-year-old defenseman after a disappointing two-year stint. Graves, under a six-year, $27 million contract, posted just four points in 61 games last season and saw reduced playing time. The move follows the team’s acquisition of new defensemen and strong performances from prospects, leaving no room for Graves. He is expected to clear waivers and be assigned to the AHL’s Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins. Other players waived include defensemen Alexander Alexeyev and forwards Rafael Harvey-Pinard, Bokondji Imama, and Samuel Poulin. Injuries continue to affect several NHL teams, with players like Cole Perfetti, Scott Laughton, and J.T. Miller dealing with various issues ahead of the season opener.