Since the news of Mike Richards‘ contract termination broke, we’ve learned a little more about the situation from various reporters. Not a lot more, mind you, but a little more.
Despite the impression that there was basically no chance of the Los Angeles Kings being able to trade Mike Richards’ contract, there were at least teams who were discussing a potential trade with LA. Even more interesting? They were both within the division.
However, an off-ice incident scuttled those trade talks, while setting the stage for today’s termination. Here’s Katie Strang of ESPN:
Several sources told ESPN.com the Kings were made aware of the situation Friday, approximately an hour after the first round of the 2015 NHL draft had begun.
The team was already in the process of trying to trade him — discussions were in place with both the Edmonton Oilers and the Calgary Flames — but Kings general manager Dean Lombardi immediately informed both teams upon learning about the situation that he had no prior knowledge of the incident and halted those talks, according to a source.
Strang goes on to mention that Lombardi personally informed both Oilers GM Peter Chiarelli and Flames GM Brad Treliving of the situation, ending any possibility of a trade.
As always, more on this story as it develops.