Flyers waive Johansen citing 'material breach'

Ryan Johansen cleared waivers Wednesday after the Philadelphia Flyers announced they're terminating his contract due to a material breach,

Johansen, 32, had one season remaining with an $8-million salary.

His representatives released a statement indicating Johansen "has a severe hockey injury that requires extensive surgery" and noted that they're in contact with the NHLPA. Johansen has 60 days to file a grievance.

The NHLPA said "the Philadelphia Flyers' actions raise significant concerns" and that the matter is under review, according to Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman.

The Flyers acquired Johansen from the Colorado Avalanche last season with a first-round pick for defenseman Sean Walker. Johansen hasn't played since being traded to Philadelphia.

Flyers general manager Daniel Briere addressed Johansen's situation in April.

"All I can tell you is I don't expect him to be back," Briere said, according to Philly Hockey Now's Jon Bailey. "I don't know, exactly, the situation. We're dealing on the medical side with him. ... He doesn't think he can play hockey. I wish I had a better answer for you. We need to get him better to figure out if there's even a remote chance of him dressing for the organization."

Philadelphia would clear Johansen's $4-million cap hit by terminating his contract. The Nashville Predators retained half of Johansen's $8-million cap hit in the trade that sent him to the Avalanche last summer.

Johansen tallied 13 goals and 23 points in 63 games with Colorado last season.