The standoff between Vadim Shipachyov and the Vegas Golden Knights appears to have reached a standstill.
Before the team places the Russian forward on unconditional waivers for the purpose of terminating his contract, general manager George McPhee is reportedly seeking assurance from his 30 counterparts that Shipachyov won't be claimed, according to Sportsnet's Eric Engels.
If he were to be claimed, that team would pick up the remainder of his two-year, $9-million deal without having to send any assets to Vegas.
The Golden Knights would still be on the hook for a $2-million signing bonus of which Shipachyov has agreed to pay back all but $86,000 once the termination process officially begins.
At present, Shipachyov is in Russia and is hoping to latch on with a KHL club. His only other option is to retire, meaning Vegas would retain his NHL rights for the time being.
In three games with Vegas, Shipachyov recorded one goal and three shots on net.