The Chicago Blackhawks have terminated the contract with 2007 NHL champion Corey Perry, The Athletic reports.
On Tuesday, November 28, Chicago sent the 38-year-old forward to the waiver draft and then terminated the player's contract.
The Canucks Daily website suggested that the reason for this decision could be Perry's sexual relationship with the mother of his teammate Connor Bedard. However, no confirmation of this version was ever found.
According to Blackhawks general manager Kyle Davidson, the cause was a “workplace” conflict.
“This topic does not affect any players or their families, and anything that suggests otherwise, or anyone suggesting otherwise, is grossly inaccurate and, frankly, disgusting. It was a tough situation,” Davidson said.
Source: Getty Images
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Soon Perry himself made a statement. He apologized for his actions, saying he had a drinking problem.
“I'm ashamed and I've let you all down. Most importantly, I want to directly apologize to those who were negatively impacted by this and I'm sorry this has further impacted others. My behavior was inappropriate and wrong.”
“I began working with mental health and substance abuse experts to discuss my problems with alcohol. I will take all necessary steps to ensure this never happens again.. I hope to regain the trust and respect of everyone who believed in me throughout my career.”
Perry's agent, Pat Morris, confirmed his client's comments the same day, saying he had left the team to “address personal issues.”
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