NHL team looks to cut player after problematic social media video

The Arizona Coyotes are looking to terminate the contract of a recently acquired player for the second time in less than eight months.

The Coyotes announced Friday that they were putting forward Adam Ruzicka on unconditional waivers for the purpose of terminating his contract.

The Associated Press reported that the move followed a Ruzicka social media post that appeared to show him plus white powder and a credit card on a plate.

The team said it would have no comment.

Ruzicka, 24, had been claimed off waivers from the Calgary Flames on Jan. 25 and he played in three games for the Coyotes this month. The 2017 fourth-round pick has 40 points in 117 career games.

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His contract can be terminated once he clears waivers, though the NHL Players’ Association can file a grievance.

The Coyotes had terminated the contract of forward Alex Galchenyuk shortly after he had signed as a free agent on July 1. He had been arrested on July 9 for hit-and-run and disorderly conduct, among other charges. The police report alleged that he had made threatening remarks to officers. Galchenyuk apologized, entered the NHL/NHLPA assistance program and is now playing in Russia.

Ruzicka would be the second NHL player to have his contract terminated during the 2023-24 season.

The Chicago Blackhawks terminated Corey Perry’s contract in November for ‘unacceptable’ conduct that violated ‘the terms of his Standard Player’s Contract and the Blackhawks’ internal policies intended to promote professional and safe work environments.’ He signed with the Edmonton Oilers less than two months later.