The Philadelphia Flyers have made a significant decision regarding forward Ryan Johansen, placing him on unconditional waivers with the intention of terminating his contract due to a material breach. This move comes as a surprise to many in the hockey world, as Johansen was expected to carry a cap hit of $4 million next season for the Flyers before hitting unrestricted free agency in 2025.
TSN Hockey Insider Chris Johnston has provided some insight into the situation, reporting that the “early indication” is that Johansen will file a grievance on the termination through the NHL Players’ Association. The process of filing a grievance allows for potential negotiated settlements, with past players finding success in this avenue.
The 32-year-old forward has been out of action since being acquired by the Flyers in a trade with the Colorado Avalanche last season. Despite being waived shortly after the trade, Johansen did not see any playing time in either the NHL or AHL due to a hip injury. Flyers general manager Daniel Briere had previously expressed uncertainty about Johansen’s status for the upcoming season, noting that the player was undergoing rehabilitation for the injury.
“He’s going through some kind of rehab,” Briere revealed in an interview with NHL.com. “He had an injection; claims he has a hip injury. At this point, honestly I’m not too sure where it’s at. We’re not sure if he’s going to need surgery, or if he’s going to be ready for camp. We don’t really know at this point.”
Prior to his time with the Flyers, Johansen tallied 13 goals and 23 points in 63 games with the Avalanche last season. He was part of a trade that saw the Nashville Predators retain half of his eight-year, $64 million contract, making his $4 million cap hit a relief for both the Flyers and the Predators.
A former fourth overall pick in the 2010 draft by the Columbus Blue Jackets, Johansen has had a successful career thus far, accumulating 202 goals and 578 points in 905 career games. However, his future in the NHL now hangs in the balance as he navigates this unexpected turn of events with his contract termination by the Flyers.
