Defenseman Libor Hájek has been placed on the San Jose Barracuda farm team waivers list by the San Jose Sharks, opening the possibility for any National Hockey League organization to claim him. The roster move follows a one-year, two-way contract Hájek signed with San Jose in July, after which he skated in just a single preseason game on September 20, logging over 18 minutes of ice time and finishing a minus-three in a 6-2 loss against the Anaheim Ducks.
NHL Waiver Status and Training Camp Reality
San Jose kept nine other defensemen in camp ahead of the regular season, leaving Hájek without an expanded look following his lone preseason appearance. NHL clubs evaluating the waiver wire must weigh his prior North American experience against his recent deployment.
Extensive International and Extraliga Pedigree
Selected 37th overall by the Tampa Bay Lightning in the 2016 NHL Entry Draft, Hájek has appeared in 110 regular-season games at the highest level, recording four goals and eight assists. During his stint with the New York Rangers, he averaged roughly fifteen minutes of ice time per night, earning praise from former goaltender Henrik Lundqvist for his defensive reliability.
After ending his previous North American stint with the Pittsburgh Penguins’ American Hockey League affiliate in December 2023, Hájek returned to Europe to sign with HC Dynamo Pardubice. There, he anchored the blue line with strong positional awareness, playing 61 total games including the playoffs, contributing 16 points, and helping Pardubice capture their seventh club championship title. He has also represented Czechia at the last three International Ice Hockey Federation World Championships, winning a gold medal at the 2024 tournament.
Frequently Asked Questions
What team did Libor Hájek play for before joining San Jose?
Prior to signing his two-way deal with the Sharks, Hájek played for HC Dynamo Pardubice in the Czech Extraliga, where he won a league title.
How many NHL games has Libor Hájek played?
Will Hájek return to Europe if unclaimed on waivers?
While clearing waivers would send him directly to the San Jose Barracuda, players in his position occasionally weigh options to return to European leagues closer to family if NHL opportunities stall.
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