Bruins hope Beleskey finds game in AHL

Matt Beleskey is Providence-bound.

The Boston Bruins placed the winger on waivers for the purpose of assigning him to the team's minor-league affiliate in Rhode Island, general manager Don Sweeney announced Thursday.

"Matt was placed on waivers with the hope he will have the opportunity to go to Providence, play in all situations, get his confidence and game back to the level he brought in his first year with the Bruins," Sweeney said.

"Matt has been nothing but an exemplary teammate and pro during the time he has not been in the lineup, but we felt playing would be more beneficial to Matt than practicing, especially with the limited practice time available with regards to our schedule."

Beleskey is in the third season of a five-year, $19-million contract signed with the Bruins in 2015. He recorded 15 goals and 22 assists in his first season with the club, but has managed just three goals and five assists in his past 63 games, with zero points in 14 outings this season.

Injury issues have hindered him over that time, but Beleskey often has been scratched from the lineup this season despite returning to full health.

It's possible he could be claimed off waivers, or traded if not, but his contract makes that unlikely.