Sean Avery Clears Waivers, Could Be Headed for Hartford

The Sean Avery saga took a turn last week, as it was learned that the New York Rangers were interested in re-acquiring the controversial forward. Avery played there before signing in Dallas as a free agent, and it appears that the interest in a return is mutual. He started skating again last week as he aims for a return to the NHL.

The Stars started the process of allowing Avery to make his return on Saturday, as they placed him on waivers. Since no team claimed him before the Monday deadline, Avery can now be moved by the Stars.

The most likely destination right now appears to be Hartford of the American Hockey League. The Wolves are an affiliate of the New York Rangers, so it makes sense that the Stars would be able to stash Avery there while something is worked out that would allow Avery to join the Rangers organization.

Since the Stars do not have an AHL affiliate, they have to find a team that would agree to take Avery. Not everyone in the league is going to do that, since most everyone in the AHL has an affiliation with an NHL team. Why let Avery showcase his skills when the parent club has no interest in him?

What do the Rangers think of all this? Well, captain Chris Drury says Avery is deserving of another chance, and the Rangers would be willing to give it to him.

With the Rangers coming off a rather embarrassing loss to Dallas, it makes sense that they would try to find a way to spark the team and its stressed-out fan base.