New York Rangers Drop Sean Avery

New York Rangers Drop Sean Avery
John Nestor

New York, NY

The New York Rangers have ended their ties with Sean Avery after placing the winger on NHL waivers.

Pat Morris, Avery's agent, confirmed reports Tuesday his client was placed on NHL waivers and the 31-year-old winger could be headed to Europe once he clears.

Avery entered the final year of his four-year, $15.5 million deal he signed with the Dallas Stars in 2008.

Rangers coach John Tortorella said center Erik Christensen beat out Avery for the 13th and last forward spot during the training camp.

The coach also added that the influx of youth and new additions in the offseason further complicated Avery's spot in the team.

"I think we have better players than Sean Avery -- plain and simple," Tortorella told ESPN Tuesday. "I can dodge it 10 different ways without trying to run Sean over. I thought he had a good camp.

Avery was healthy a scratch for the Rangers in the past two preseason games, while Christensen saw action during those games.

Known for sparking controversies, Avery accused Philadelphia Flyers' forward Wayne Simmonds of calling him an anti-gay slur.

However, Simmonds denied Avery's accusations and was not punished by the NHL due to lack of supporting evidence.