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From ESPN Insider

As soon as the news broke that forward Brad Richards was pegged to be a healthy scratch for Game 4, talk of pending compliance buyout resumed with fresh energy. And not without reasonable justification.

If the 33-year-old center isn't going to be part of the New York Rangers' long-term plans, he very well may be bought out this summer. Carrying an annual cap hit of $6.67 million until 2020, Richards has the potential to be one of the priciest albatrosses in all the league. TSN's Darren Dreger implies a parting of ways may suit all involved.

"... The NYR may swallow $24 mil for 14 years by buying Richards out, but there will be teams eager to sign him in summer for $3 mil per x 3 yrs ... Richards is still young, a very proud guy and proven winner. He will refocus in offseason and bounce back next year ..."

Mind you, if Richards returns to the lineup this postseason (the Rangers first need to win Game 4 against the Bruins for this to even be a conversation) and plays out of his mind, the buyout rumblings will quiet somewhat. But such a scenario doesn't look too promising at the moment.