TORONTO - Nazem Kadri is going to start his pro career in the American Hockey League.
The Toronto Maple Leafs have assigned the former first-round pick to the AHL Marlies.
Kadri struggled during his second NHL training camp and was unable to hold on to a spot that had been earmarked for him.
Forwards Christian Hanson and Luca Caputi, and Jussi Rynnas, were also sent to the AHL.
Forwards Jay Rosehill and Mike Zigomanis, and defenceman Danny Richmind were placed on waivers and will likely be sent to the Marlies if they clear.
Kadri, who turns 20 this week, was selected seventh overall by Toronto in the 2009 draft.
The Leafs open the regular season Thursday against the Montreal Canadiens.
