What happened: The Colorado Avalanche claimed defenseman Mike Reilly off waivers from the Carolina Hurricanes. Carolina placed Reilly on waivers after activating forward Jordan Staal from injured reserve.

Why it matters: The move adds experienced blue-line depth to Colorado's defensive rotation without surrendering trade assets. For the Hurricanes, the transaction clears a roster spot and sheds Reilly's contract to accommodate Staal's return to the active lineup.

What to watch: Reilly will link up with the Avalanche as Colorado incorporates him into the defensive pairings.