Hockey

Jordin Tootoo being bought out by Red Wings

A person familiar with the move has confirmed to The Associated Press that the Detroit Red Wings have placed forward Jordin Tootoo on waivers with the intention to buy out the final year of his contract.

Nunavut native started NHL career in Nashville

Jordin Tootoo played just 53 regular season games for Detroit over two seasons. (Duane Burleson/Associated Press)

A person familiar with the move has confirmed to The Associated Press that the Detroit Red Wings have placed forward Jordin Tootoo on waivers with the intention to buy out the final year of his contract.

The person spoke on the condition of anonymity on Wednesday, because the Red Wings have not announced the move. TSN first reported the move earlier the day.

Tootoo is set to make $2 million US next season. Should he clear waivers on Thursday, Tootoo would be in a position to become an unrestricted free agent once the Red Wings buy out the remainder of his contract for $1.33 million, spread over two years.

Should the Wings use the so-called compliance buyout, the amount won't count against their salary cap.

Buffalo Sabres forward Ville Leino and Vancouver Canucks forward David Booth cleared waivers on Wednesday. Both will have their contracts bought out.

With files from CBCSports.ca