PITTSBURGH — The Pittsburgh Penguins announced Monday they will not be bringing back a number of players, including Jack Johnson, while some restricted free agents were issued qualifying offers.
According to a release from the team, Pittsburgh placed Johnson on unconditional waivers “for the purpose of a buyout," ending his brief tenure with the Penguins. His average annual value was $3.25 million, according to CapFriendly, but the buyout amount has not been released.
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Five players received qualifying offers to remain with the team, including goalie Matt Murray, who has been the center of trade rumors this summer. However, Murray accepting a qualifying offer would not rule out a trade before next season.
Four others -- Pontus Aberg, Anthony Angello, Sam Lafferty and Sam Miletic -- were extended qualifying offers as they are restricted free agents. If another team offers them a free-agent deal and they accept, Pittsburgh is eligible to receive draft compensation.
Those players could also just take the offer given by the Penguins and stay with the organization.
Dominik Simon, Graham Knott and John Nyberg were not extended qualifying offers and will become unrestricted free agents on Oct. 9. That means they are free to sign with any team without the Penguins receiving compensation.
Free agency starts Oct. 9 at 12 p.m., while the 2020 NHL Draft will be held virtually Oct. 6-7. The Penguins' first pick is No. 77 overall.
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