Two players hit NHL waivers - including a goalie from the Penguins' division rival

Several teams across the NHL have been shopping for depth down the middle or for some improvement between the pipes, including the Penguins.

They now have some options, seeing that center Justin Kirkland of the Flames and goalie Spencer Martin of the Rangers have been placed on waivers today.

Kirkland, a former third-round pick of 2014, is now on waivers, while the New York Rangers did the same with Martin, who was also selected in the third round a year prior.

The Rangers had to place the netminder on the waiver wire in order to get him on the roster, seeing that he had his KHL contract terminated with CSKA early yesterday after just 14 games.

He signed a contract with New York, which was confirmed by the Rangers moments after the waiver announcement.

In 14 appearances in the KHL, Martin had a goals-against average of 2.69, a save percentage of .905, and two shutouts, very respectable numbers.

Between 2016 and 2025, Martin played a total of 66 NHL games for the Colorado Avalanche, Vancouver Canucks, Columbus Blue Jackets, and Carolina Hurricanes, putting together a record of 24-30-8 with a goals-against average of 3.31, a save percentage of .833, and one shutout.

These numbers clearly demonstrate why he hasn't been able to carve out a full-time NHL role. But this could be a fresh start for Martin.

As for Kirkland, he has collected just one assist in nine games with the struggling Flames this season. He'll be assigned to AHL Calgary if he doesn't get claimed by tomorrow.

With both players now exposed on waivers, several NHL teams, including the Penguins, could see an opportunity to bolster depth at center or in goal.