Chicago goaltender Nikolai Khabibulin clears waivers

Nikolai Khabibulin has cleared waivers, one day after the Blackhawks placed him there.

Trade speculation continues to follow the one-time Stanley Cup champion, who's future with the club was called into question when GM Dale Tallon signed Cristobal Huet from the free agent market in the off-season.

The Hawks also have two young goaltenders, Corey Crawford and Antti Niemi, who are thought to be ready to step into a backup role this season.

Khabibulin, who won his Cup in 2004 with Tampa Bay, is in the final year of a four-year $27 million contract. He was originally selected in the ninth round of the 1992 entry draft by the Winnipeg Jets.