Roman Hamrlik claimed off waivers by New York Rangers

The New York Rangers have claimed defenseman Roman Hamrlik off waivers, according to multiple reports on Wednesday afternoon.

Hamrlik had been placed on waivers by the Washington Capitals on Tuesday afternoon. The 38-year-old defenseman was sparingly used by the Capitals this season, appearing in four games (in total, he played 52 minutes this season). Head coach Adam Oates stated on Tuesday that Hamrlik had handled the situation well and that the veteran was a victim of circumstance, given the team's depth at defense.

Hamrlik is in the final year of a two-year, $7 million contract that carries an annual average value of $3.5 million against the salary cap. New York will now be responsible for that cap hit, as well as the remaining prorated portion of the contract.

The Rangers potentially have a spot open on defense, as Marc Staal was struck in the face with a deflected shot during Tuesday night's contest against the Philadelphia Flyers. The club had internal discussions about claiming Hamrlik prior to Staal's injury, according to Pierre LeBrun of ESPN.

As of Wednesday afternoon, the Rangers have yet to update Staal's status.

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