Cloutier situation gets interesting

From Rich Hammond of the L.A. Daily News:

Before Cloutier was placed on waivers, he was examined by Dr. Ronald Kvitne, a highly respected orthopedic surgeon, who determined that Cloutier was healthy enough to play. Cloutier sought a second opinion, and that doctor also deemed him healthy enough to play.

So the Kings went ahead, put Cloutier on waivers and bought out his contract.

Now, Cloutier wants to seek a third opinion. If that doctor says Cloutier is unable to play, the buyout might be nullified and Cloutier might get his $3.1 million, but the Kings would be able to get salary-cap relief through a long-term injury situation. But first, we’ll have to see what this third doctor says. What a mess.

Read Hammond’s entry here.

What a mess is right. This could end up as a serious PA/NHL battle. We’ll keep our eyes open for more information.