Chicago Blackhawks general manager Kyle Davidson addressed the rumors circulating about the team’s decision to cut winger Corey Perry on Tuesday.
The Blackhawks placed the 38-year-old veteran on unconditional waivers Tuesday amid an ongoing internal investigation into “possible misconduct” committed by Perry.
Davidson spoke to the media later in the day to refute the irresponsible rumors about Perry and Connor Bedard.
“I do want to be very clear on this one point — this does not involve any players or their families. Anything that suggests otherwise, or anyone that suggests otherwise, is wildly inaccurate and frankly, it’s disgusting,” said Davidson.
Davidson, who appeared largely emotional during the presser, did not disclose any details regarding the investigation or the team’s findings due to the decision being “an individual personnel matter.”
Davidson did clarify that the issue was “a workplace matter” and not something that was criminal in nature.
Blackhawks players were informed Tuesday of the decision to waive Perry. However, the players were not told of any of the details surrounding Perry’s alleged misconduct.
The Blackhawks acquired Perry from the Tampa Bay Lightning via trade in June and later signed him to a one-year, $4 million contract.
Perry was seen as a veteran presence for the rebuilding Blackhawks who could guide them while they built around the young Bedard. Perry was also expected to provide scoring on the ice next to the 2023 NHL first overall pick.
With Perry’s scoring punch gone, the Blackhawks traded for winger Anthony Beauvillier from the Vancouver Canucks in the middle of Tuesday’s matchup against the Seattle Kraken.
Perry tallied five goals and five assists in 16 games played for Chicago this season. The 19-year pro’s point total was third on the Blackhawks entering their Nov. 22 matchup against the Columbus Blue Jackets.
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