Flyers will Buyout R.J. Umberger’s Contract

VOORHEES — It was a decision so obvious, the player himself called it at the Flyers’ exit interviews.

R.J. Umberger will soon be a free agent. The Flyers have decided to buy out the 34-year-old forward with one year left on his contract. The only issue is a matter of exactly when. Umberger had a no-move clause, so he can waive his right to go on waivers, which most players have to clear before being bought out. The Flyers believe he will waive that right Thursday, but if he doesn't they will then put him on waivers.

By buying out Umberger, the Flyers save $3 million towards the salary cap for the 2016-17 season, paying only $1.6 million instead of his $4.6 million cap hit.

Buyouts in the NHL are for double the time left on the contract, so the Flyers will end up paying Umberger again next year, but at a $1.5 million cap hit.

The team was eligible to buy Umberger out two days after the Stanley Cup Final ended. It was awarded to the Pittsburgh Penguins Sunday night.