Corey Perry issues statement on release from Blackhawks
Veteran NHL player Corey Perry issued a statement on Thursday offering his first public comments since his contract with the Chicago Blackhawks was terminated on Tuesday.
In that statement Perry apologized to his former Blackhawks teammates and the entire organization for his actions, while also announcing he has already begun seeking help from professionals in the mental health and substance abuse fields to deal with his struggles with alcohol.
Here is his full statement.
There have been no specifics given on what, exactly, it was that Perry did that resulted in his termination from the team. He had been out of the lineup for several games with no update being given on his future before the Blackhawks announced earlier this week his contract was being terminated for conduct that was "unacceptable and in violation of both the terms of his Standard Player’s Contract and the Blackhawks’ internal policies intended to promote professional and safe work environments."
That wording, as well as the lack of transparency from the Blackhawks, led to internet speculation running wild on what it was he could have done.
Those questions remain unanswered.
Perry was in his first year with Chicago and acquired to help bring some veteran leadership to a young, rebuilding team. At his peak he was one of the best power forwards in the NHL. Given this situation, as well as his age (38), it is entirely possible his playing career is finished.
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