Hmmm…a mystery is emerging in the National Hockey League.

Star Center Ryan Johansen The Philadelphia Flyers placed the player on an unconditional release from his current contract, citing “material breaches.”

“The Flyers will not be making any further comment at this time,” the team said after a brief announcement on social media on Tuesday. (RELATED: Canadiens acquire veteran superstar Patrick Laine in blockbuster trade with Blue Jackets)

Johansen, 32, has not played in a game for the Flyers since joining Philadelphia in a trade with the Colorado Avalanche on March 6. Colorado acquired the defenseman in return. Sean Walker And they received a first-round pick in the 2026 draft. Philadelphia also received a conditional first-round pick in 2025.

Johansen's agent, Kurt Oberhart, spoke of his disappointment with the Flyers organization and said he had been in contact with the NHL Players Association.

“Ryan Johansen has suffered a severe hockey injury that will require major surgery. Since being traded to the Philadelphia Flyers, Ryan has worked in good faith with the club, its medical staff and an approved third-party physician,” Oberhart said in an official statement. ESPN“We are disappointed that the Flyers are seeking to terminate Ryan's contract. We have been in communication with the NHLPA and will advocate for Ryan and protect his rights.”

The Philadelphia Flyers today placed forward Ryan Johansen on unconditional waivers with a view to releasing him from his contract due to a material breach of his contract. pic.twitter.com/7P9aRhVIl2

— Philadelphia Flyers (@NHLFlyers) August 20, 2024

Needless to say, I think we're all watching this story.