Lightning Claim Ritola, Meech and Maltby Waived

Forward Mattias Ritola has been claimed on waivers by the Tampa Bay Lightning.

Ritola was placed on waivers by the Detroit Red Wings on Monday, with the team hoping he would clear so they could send him to the Grand Rapids Griffins. He is a known commodity to Tampa Bay scout Pat Verbeek and general manager Steve Yzerman, who were with the Detroit organization last season.

The Red Wings also announced that veteran forward Kirk Maltby and defenseman Derek Meech were waived, with the intent of sending them to Grand Rapids. Meech cleared waivers last month.

The moves get the Red Wings down to a 23-man roster.