Flyers Waive 900-Game Veteran, Generate Instant Controversy

The Philadelphia Flyers placed veteran forward Ryan Johansen on unconditional waivers on August 20 , citing a "material breach" of his contract in a move that has ignited controversy across the NHL.

This is a long saga brewing since midway through the 2023-24 season when the Flyers traded for the forward but he never got to make his debut with Philadelphia.

Now, the Flyers are about to terminate Johansen’s contract, which would erase the $4 million they owe him for the 2024-25 season, pending his clearance from waivers.

"The Philadelphia Flyers have placed forward Ryan Johansen on unconditional waivers today for the purpose of terminating his contract due to a material breach," the Flyers statement read.

Johansen was acquired by the Flyers in March from the Colorado Avalanche. The Flyers initially attempted to trade Johansen before the deadline but found no takers, despite being willing to retain further salary. When they then tried to assign him to the AHL’s Lehigh Valley Phantoms, Johansen revealed a hip injury, surprising the team, as he had played every game for the Avalanche before the trade.

The situation took another turn when Johansen’s agent, Kurt Overhardt, released a statement expressing disappointment in the Flyers' decision.

"Ryan Johansen has a severe hockey injury that requires extensive surgery which has been scheduled," Overhardt wrote on X three hours after the official announcement . "Since being traded to the Philadelphia Flyers, Ryan has worked in good faith with the Club, its medical staff, and authorized third-party physicians. The Flyers' attempt to terminate Ryan's contract is disappointing. We have been in contact with the NHLPA and will defend Ryan and protect his rights."

This controversy has raised obvious questions about the Flyers' handling of Johansen’s situation. That said, the move isn't unreasonable from the franchise's point of view.

If the termination holds, it would free up $4 million in cap space for the Flyers, who are currently over the cap by $800k. This decision could also impact the Nashville Predators, who would see Johansen's remaining cap hit cleared from their books.

Johansen, who has played over 900 NHL games and was once a No. 4 overall draft pick, may now become a free agent if the Flyers successfully terminate his contract.