Former top draft pick hits waivers for shocking third time in just four days

After losing the 24-year-old centerman to the Vegas Golden Knights on waivers just two days prior, Raphael Lavoie was added back to the Edmonton Oilers roster on Wednesday. However, it seems like this never ends.

According to TSN Hockey Insider Chris Johnston, the 24-year-old must still clear waivers before he can be sent to the AHL's Bakersfield Condors.

Simply put, NHL waivers are situations in which teams release players to other teams prior to sending them to a lower league, typically the AHL. Other NHL teams may claim a player placed on waivers within a 24-hour period. The player joins the new team under the terms of his existing contract, if it is claimed.

The original team has the option to retain the player or send them to minors if they are unclaimed. In addition to maintaining competitive balance, waivers stop one team from accumulating players. Rookies and players with fewer years of experience are among the players who frequently do not get placed on waivers.

Lavoie has only managed one point in seven NHL games during his time with the Oilers. In 66 games with Bakersfield the previous season, he scored 28 goals.

The Chambly, Quebec native signed a $775,000 one-year, two-way contract with the Oilers last July.