On Tuesday, the Philadelphia Flyers revealed their decision to place veteran forward Ryan Johansen on unconditional waivers with the intent of terminating his contract.
The Flyers cited a “material breach” as the reason for Johansen’s contract termination and mentioned that no further comments would be made. Johansen had one year remaining on his contract, with an $8 million salary slated for the 2024-25 NHL season. His cap hit was $4 million for the Flyers.
In response, Johansen’s agent, Kurt Overhardt, issued a statement on social media indicating that Johansen is set to undergo “extensive surgery” for a major hockey-related injury. Overhardt expressed disappointment with the Flyers’ decision and noted that he is working with the NHL Players Association to advocate for Johansen’s rights.
Ryan Johansen began the 2023-24 season with the Colorado Avalanche, where he played 63 games and accumulated 23 points (13 goals and 10 assists). Despite being traded to the Flyers in March, he did not make an appearance for the team due to a hip injury.
Johansen’s NHL career also includes stints with the Columbus Blue Jackets and Nashville Predators. Over his career, he has accumulated 202 goals and 376 assists in 905 games. His sole All-Star selection occurred in 2015, when he was named MVP of the NHL All-Star Game.