Greg Wyshynski, ESPNNov 30, 2023, 04:05 PM ET
CloseGreg Wyshynski is ESPN’s senior NHL writer.
Corey Perry has apologized for “inappropriate and wrong” behavior that led the Chicago Blackhawks to terminate his contract this week.
“I would like to sincerely apologize to the entire Chicago Blackhawks organization, including ownership, management, coaches, trainers, employees, and my teammates. I would also like to apologize to my fans and my family. I feel embarrassed, and I have let you all down,” Perry said in a statement released to the media on Thursday.
Perry, 38, was placed on unconditional waivers on Tuesday for the purposes of terminating his contract. The Blackhawks called Perry’s behavior “unacceptable” and said it violated both the terms of his contract and internal organizational policies that are “intended to promote professional and safe work environments.”
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Chicago Blackhawks general manager Kyle Davidson said the decision to terminate Perry’s contract was the result of an internal investigation into “a workplace matter” involving the veteran forward.
Perry said he’s seeking professional help for substance abuse.
“I have started working with experts in the mental health and substance abuse fields to discuss my struggles with alcohol, and I will take whatever steps necessary to ensure this never happens again. I hope to regain the trust and respect of everyone who has believed in me throughout my career,” said Perry, who is now an unrestricted free agent.
Davidson said the team was first notified of the allegations last week when the Blackhawks were in Columbus, Ohio, to play the Blue Jackets on Nov. 22.
Sources told ESPN’s Emily Kaplan that Perry traveled with the team to Columbus last Tuesday, a day before the game, and an incident occurred that day involving a team employee. Perry was scratched from the game and an investigation into the incident began.
Corey Perry apologized to the Blackhawks on Thursday for his “inappropriate and wrong”…
Source link : https://www.espn.com/nhl/story/_/id/39014871/corey-perry-apologizes-blackhawks-seeking-professional-help
Author : Greg Wyshynski
Publish date : 2023-11-30 21:18:39
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