Washington Capitals Unexpectedly End Defenseman’s Contract
The Washington Capitals have unexpectedly placed one of their defensemen on unconditional waivers, effectively terminating his contract by mutual agreement. The 26-year-old Swedish defenseman had been playing in his second stint with the AHL’s Hershey Bears.
Hardy Haman Aktell Likely Heading Overseas
This move suggests that Hardy Haman Aktell is likely set to sign with an international team.
A key player in Hershey’s 2024 Calder Cup victory, Haman Aktell recorded nine assists in 27 games this season before being sidelined with a lower-body injury. He had signed a one-year, two-way contract with Washington after a successful first season, where he appeared in one NHL game and six AHL games, picking up one assist.
This is a bit of breaking news – it appears Hardy Haman Aktell is leaving Hershey. Washington is putting him on waivers to terminate his contract. Like Day, it's typically an indication that the players is looking to go overseas. It's another blow to Hershey's blue line. https://t.co/JY6vcuS330
— Bears Hockey Nation (@HBHNationBlog) January 31, 2025
He later returned to Hershey, contributing nine points (5 goals, 4 assists) in 17 playoff games, helping defend their championship title.
The 6-foot-3, 216-pound defenseman joined the Capitals in 2023 after three years with the SHL’s Vaxjo Lakers. Although drafted in 2016 by the Nashville Predators in the fourth round, he never signed an entry-level deal with them.
Haman Aktell’s departure marks the third defenseman from last year’s roster to leave, following Dmitry Osipov’s trade to Utica in December and Logan Day’s waiver release in December, after which he signed with the KHL’s Traktor Chelyabinsk.
Haman Aktell was set to become a restricted free agent this summer after signing a one-year, two-way extension with the Capitals last July.
A fresh start overseas could be just what Haman Aktell needs to reignite his career.
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