Mike Richards contract termination triggers grievance from NHLPA

The NHL Players' Association has filed a grievance on behalf of Mike Richards against the Los Angeles Kings, contesting the termination of his contract.

The Kings terminated Richards' contract in late June for what they called "a material breach of the requirements" of his contract.

Richards had five years and$22 million US left on his contract.

By terminating the deal, the Kings get out from the final five seasons, and the average annual value of $5.75 million US,of Richards'$69-million US, 12-year contract without a cap penalty.

It was not immediately clear when Richards would have a hearing, though the NHLPA would like the process to be expedited.

Richards is currently a free agent.

The 30-year-old native of Kenora, Ont., is nowunder investigationby the Royal Canadian Mounted Police for an apparent off-ice incident that occurred on the border of Emerson, Man., and Pembina, N.D.

Once considered a star, Richardshas been indecline in recent seasons. Hescored five goals and tallied 11 assists in 53 games in 2014-15, a far cry from his 30 goals and 50 assists in 79 games with the Philadelphia Flyers in 2008-09.

In January, Richards was sent down to the Manchester Monarchs of the American Hockey League after clearing waivers.