The Los Angeles Kings' decision to terminate the contract of centre Mike Richards has led to a number of questions.

Richards was placed on unconditional waivers on Sunday and cleared on Monday. The Kings were expected to buy out the remainder of Richards' contract, but have instead terminated the deal.

However, TSN Hockey Insider Bob McKenzie explained Monday that there were angles from which to approach the team's decision.

Richards finished with five goals and 16 points in 53 games with the Kings in 2014-15, a season which included a stint with the American Hockey League's Manchester Monarchs.

The 30-year-old Richards has five years remaining on his contract worth an average annual value of $5.75 million.

Los Angeles, however, may not completely be off the hook for Richards' salary moving forward.

The termination may not be a final decision, however, as McKenzie pointed out that Richards and the Players' Association could choose to file a grievance over the matter.

Originally selected 24th overall by the Philadelphia Flyers at the 2003 NHL Entry Draft, Richards was dealt to the Kings in 2011 in exchange for Brayden Schenn, Wayne Simmonds and a second-round draft pick. In 710 career games with the two clubs, Richards has scored 179 goals and 303 assists.

He has won two Stanley Cups as a member of the Kings (2011 and 2014) and has won gold at both the Olympic Games (Vancouver 2010) and World Junior Championships (2005) representing Canada.

McKenzie added that he expects the Kings to allocate their funds towards pending free agents.