The St. Louis Blues have placed forward Robby Fabbri on waivers, while the Florida Panthers have done the same with Luke Kunin, as reported by Elliotte Friedman of Sportsnet. Both players, former first-round selections and seasoned NHL veterans with over 450 games played each, now face uncertain futures as they seek new opportunities via waivers.
Robby Fabbri’s Career and Current Situation
Fabbri’s waiver placement comes shortly after Robert Thomas was activated from injured reserve, pushing roster adjustments for the Blues. Once a prized prospect for St. Louis, Fabbri returned to the organization last December with a one-year, $775,000 contract after unsuccessful tryouts with the Pittsburgh Penguins and the AHL’s Charlotte Checkers. This season, he featured in 15 games for St. Louis, contributing one goal and three assists.
The Ontario-born forward showed promising production two years ago with the Detroit Red Wings, scoring 18 goals in 68 games, though his shooting percentage of 18.6% was considered unsustainable. His possession statistics remain underwhelming, with a 45.5% mark at even strength. Given his modest cap hit, it is plausible he could be claimed off waivers; however, a move to AHL Springfield appears more likely, where he has limited past experience with only nine games played.
Fabbri’s NHL tenure includes an impressive 457 games and 220 points, along with a Stanley Cup win, reflecting a solid professional career despite his current status. The Blues’ current rebuilding phase favors younger players, potentially signaling the winding down of Fabbri’s NHL journey.
Luke Kunin’s Role and Prospects Going Forward
Luke Kunin, who carries an identical $775,000 cap hit expiring at season’s end, entered the waiver wire after a season marked by limited offensive output. A former Minnesota Wild first-round pick, Kunin has transitioned from a projected top-six forward to a role as a fourth-line player known for his gritty style. This season, appearing in 44 games for the Panthers, he has accumulated just four points while providing valuable depth amid the team’s injury challenges.
Kunin previously enjoyed steady performances between 2020 and 2022 with Nashville before being traded to San Jose, where he took on a larger role during the Sharks’ rebuilding efforts. Despite playing consistently, his best point totals have not exceeded 18 per season, illustrating his shift toward a more physical presence on the ice.
Among the two players, Kunin is viewed as more likely to be claimed by another NHL team. Players with his defensive acumen and low cap hit often attract interest before the trade deadline. Last year, he was exchanged to Columbus for a fourth-round pick, and although his current production with Florida has been modest, the opportunity for a fresh start may appeal to buyers seeking depth forwards at minimal cost.
Implications and Next Steps for Fabbri and Kunin
Both Robby Fabbri and Luke Kunin stand at pivotal points in their careers as waiver claims will determine their immediate futures. If unclaimed, Fabbri may continue contributing at the AHL level with Springfield, providing experienced depth in the Blues’ system. Meanwhile, Kunin’s style and contract make him a viable target for teams aiming to bolster physicality and depth with limited financial commitment.
These developments highlight the ongoing roster shuffling in the NHL as teams balance veteran presence with youth and cap flexibility during a competitive season. Monitoring the waiver wire in the coming days will reveal which organizations are willing to invest in these journeymen forwards, and potentially reshape their lineups ahead of the trade deadline.
Waivers today:
Mangiapane & Regula (EDM)
Brisebois (VAN)
Fabbri (STL)
Kunin (FLA)— Elliotte Friedman (@FriedgeHNIC) March 1, 2026
