"Amidst the excitement of seeing Mikael Backlund practising fully and ready for action was the noticeable absence of Niklas Hagman Thursday morning.

Hagman, the left winger who's struggled pretty much since coming to Calgary in the Dion Phaneuf trade nearly two years ago, was placed on waivers and is awaiting the result.

If Hagman isn't claimed, the 31-year-old winger with one goal and one assist in four games this season will likely be sent to the AHL Abbotsford Heat, along with his salary of US$3 million.

"I've played with him a long time, and he's got a lot of skill," said Matt Stajan, who also came to Calgary in that trade. "Hopefully, he gets a chance and things turn for him. He's proven more than once he can produce in this league and is a good teammate.""