Report: Flyers Have "Behind-the-Scenes Wink From NHL" On Johansen Termination

The Philadelphia Flyers last week placed Ryan Johansen on unconditional waivers for the purpose of terminating his contract due to what the team calls "a material breach". Johansen's agent immediately came to his player's defense and said they will challenge the move.

But according to a report from Sportsnet insider Elliotte Friedman, the Flyers have good reason to believe they will be successful in this endeavor, saying "the Flyers wouldn’t pursue this without a behind-the-scenes wink from the NHL."

Two major reasons that the team and the league have confidence that their termination of Johansen's contract will be successful include:

(a) He did not miss any games or practices with the Colorado Avalance, including playing in a game for them just two days before the trade to Philadelphia, then all of a sudden he couldn't play for either the Flyers or their AHL affiliate due to a hip injury that his agent calls "a severe hockey injury that requires extensive surgery."

(b) Johansen got married this summer and was seen dancing at his wedding, casting doubt on just how "severe" his hip injury is.

Hearing reports that the Flyers obtained a video from Ryan Johansen’s wedding of him dancing that disprove the hip injury. Hips don’t lie
— Charlie O’Brien (@flyersfan1973) August 20, 2024

Nevertheless, Friedman doesn't think the case is a slam dunk, and didn't want to speculate on the outcome of the grievance.

"I wouldn’t try to handicap this, except for saying the NHL and NHLPA hate risking precedent from an arbitrator, so a settlement is always the preference without an air-tight case."

Johansen had 13 goals and 23 points for the Avalance this past season in 63 games, playing 13:39 per night. His last game for them was on March 4th, playing 11 minutes. On March 6th he was traded to Philadelphia, and never suited up again.