The Columbus Blue Jackets aren't allowing Zac Rinaldo to play in the organization this season due to his vaccination status.
The 31-year-old signed a one-year, two-way deal with the club this offseason. He cleared waivers Friday but won't be assigned to the AHL, the team announced.
However, the Blue Jackets will still honor his contract.
"Given the impact COVID-19 continues to have in our communities, we believe the best course of action given Zac's vaccination status is to not have him report to Cleveland at this time," general manager Jarmo Kekalainen said.
He added: "While we respect an individual's right to make a personal choice with regards to being vaccinated or not, we have a responsibility to do what we believe is best for our organization. We will honor Zac's contract, but if he wants to pursue any other opportunities to play this season we will allow him to do so."
Rinaldo has recorded 18 goals, 24 assists, and 758 penalty minutes in 374 career NHL games with five different teams.