Several Richards reports emerge

Though the context surrounding the Kings’ decision to terminate, and not buy out, Mike Richards’ contract has been slow to develop, several reports emerged on Tuesday:

ESPN.com: Source: Mike Richards under investigation by Canadian police
“Los Angeles had been in the process of trying to trade Richards — 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.”

TMZ.com: NHL’s Mike Richards: NHL Notified About Oxycodone Drama
“NHL officials have been notified that the Royal Canadian Mounted Police investigation into ex-L.A. Kings player Mike Richards involves the prescription drug oxycodone … multiple sources tell TMZ Sports.”

Winnipeg Sun: Mike Richards investigated by RCMP for OxyContin at U.S.-Canada border
“NHL veteran Mike Richards is under investigation for alleged possession of a restricted substance while attempting to cross the Canada-U.S. border.

A source tells the Winnipeg Sun Manitoba RCMP are investigating, but have not laid charges, after a man was held in custody at the Emerson, Man., border crossing for at least four hours after allegedly trying to import OxyContin pills on June 17.”

There’s more as well from the LA Times and the Twitter timeline of Paul Friesen, who wrote the Winnipeg Sun’s article.

On Monday, the Kings terminated Richards’ contract, citing a “material breach of the requirements of his Standard Player’s Contract.”

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