Waiver Moves See Kuzma Head to Erie, Dever Join Frontenacs

Two Ontario Hockey League waiver claims on Wednesday resulted in overage changes for the Ottawa 67’s, Erie Otters and Kingston Frontenacs, as Andrew Kuzma and Jack Dever found new homes ahead of Thursday’s roster deadlines.

The Otters announced they have claimed forward Andrew Kuzma off waivers from Kingston. Kuzma was placed on waivers by the Frontenacs as clubs finalized their three overage players.

Kuzma, 20, appeared in 39 games with Kingston this season, recording 20 points on 12 goals and eight assists. The Naperville, Illinois native is playing his first OHL season after coming from the USHL and is committed to Penn State University following the conclusion of his overage year.

Otters Director of Hockey Operations Scott Grieve said the club has had interest in Kuzma dating back to his draft year, noting that recent CHL and NCAA eligibility changes created the opportunity to add him at this stage of the season. Kuzma is expected to join Erie on the road this weekend and will wear number 96.

With Kuzma departing, Kingston moved quickly to fill the open overage spot, claiming forward Jack Dever off waivers from the Ottawa 67’s.

Dever, 20, has spent his entire OHL career with Ottawa, appearing in 199 games and posting 90 points on 26 goals and 64 assists. The Belleville, Ontario native has also been a regular penalty killer, recording a career plus-26 rating while taking just 20 penalty minutes.

Frontenacs General Manager Kory Cooper said Dever’s versatility and experience will be valuable, noting his ability to play both centre and right wing while contributing in defensive situations.

Kingston begins a three-game road trip Thursday night in Saginaw, with stops in Flint and Sarnia to follow, while Erie continues its busy week of roster adjustments with Kuzma set to make his Otters debut.