The Winnipeg Jets have suspended defenseman Dustin Byfuglien for failing to report to training camp, reports TSN's Bob McKenzie.
If Byfuglien doesn't report by opening day, the Jets lose his cap hit until he shows up. The team granted the veteran blue-liner a leave of absence as he reportedly contemplates his future in the NHL.
The Jets still want Byfuglien to return, but they need to protect their roster and create cap flexibility until they know his intentions, McKenzie added.
Byfuglien has one year remaining on his contract with a $7.6-million cap hit. The Jets now have $23 million in projected cap space as restricted free agents Kyle Connor and Patrik Laine remain unsigned, according to CapFriendly.
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