Forward Corey Perry apologized Thursday for the ‘inappropriate and wrong’ behavior that led the team to terminate his contract and said he would seek treatment for his ‘struggles with alcohol.’
‘I am embarrassed and have let you all down,’ Perry, 38, said in a statement released to media organizations.
The Blackhawks placed Perry on unconditional waivers Tuesday in order to terminate his contract, saying he engaged in ‘unacceptable’ conduct that violated ‘the terms of his Standard Player’s Contract and the Blackhawks’ internal policies intended to promote professional and safe work environments.’ He passed through waivers on Wednesday.
The team and Perry didn’t reveal what he did, but ESPN reported Perry traveled with the team to Columbus on Nov. 21, when an incident occurred involving a team employee.
‘As a result of my actions, there has been speculation and rumors,’ Perry said in his statement. ‘I am sickened by the impact this has had on others, and I want to make it clear that in no way did this situation involve any of my teammates or their families. Most importantly, I want to directly apologize to those who have been negatively affected and I am sorry for the additional impact to others it has created. My behavior was inappropriate and wrong.
‘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.’
The Blackhawks acquired Perry during the summer and signed him to a one-year, $4 million contract. After waiving Perry, Chicago acquired winger Anthony Beauvillier from the Vancouver Canucks.