Surprising move by the Flyers: Ryan Johansen placed on unconditional waivers

On Tuesday, the Philadelphia Flyers put out a statement on their social media accounts announcing that they've made the decision to place forward Ryan Johansen on unconditional waivers for the purpose of terminating his contract.

The Flyers went on to say in their statement that the reason for placing Johansen on unconditional waivers is due to a material breach, adding that they have no further comment at this time.

Elliotte Friedman of Sportsnet is reporting that Ryan Johansen is expected to file a grievance with the NHLPA regarding today's decision by the Flyers. Friedman added that the issue surrounding this situation has to do with an injury that prevented Johansen from playing for the Philadelphia Flyers last season after being dealt to them by Colorado back in March.

The 32-year-old was acquired by Philadelphia on March 6th and that same day, the Flyers placed him on waivers to assign him to their AHL team in order to play games for them. However, after clearing waivers, an injury issue was brought up by Johansen and his camp and he never suited up in a game for the Flyers or their American Hockey League affiliate in Lehigh Valley.

In 63 games last season for the Colorado Avalanche, the Vancouver, BC native registered 23 points (13 goals, ten assists), 34 penalty minutes and was a minus-six.