Canucks loan Gagner to AHL Marlies

Sam Gagner will be playing closer to home.

The veteran forward and Ontario native, who cleared waivers Tuesday after being released by the Vancouver Canucks, has been loaned to the AHL's Toronto Marlies, the team announced Tuesday.

The Canucks' alternative was to assign Gagner to their minor-league affiliate in Utica, N.Y.

However, while Gagner will suit up for the Toronto Maple Leafs' farm club, he remains property of the Canucks and can't be recalled by the Maple Leafs, unless they were to acquire his rights.

The 29-year-old is under contract for the next two seasons at a $3.15-million cap hit.

While it's a rare occurrence, it's not the only such arrangement in the NHL. Matt Moulson, who's under contract with the Buffalo Sabres, spent last season with the AHL's Ontario Reign, the Los Angeles Kings' minor-league affiliate. Moulson has again been loaned to Ontario for 2018-19.

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