Blackhawks cut ties with veteran player for ‘unacceptable’ conduct

The Chicago Blackhawks are seeking to terminate the contract of veteran forward Corey Perry for violating club policies.

The move comes after Perry ‘stepped away’ from the team last week ‘to attend to personal matters,’ according to his agent.

However, the Blackhawks said in a statement on Tuesday that Perry would not be returning to the roster after determining he ‘engaged in conduct that is 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. As such, Corey Perry has been placed on unconditional waivers. In the event Mr. Perry clears waivers, we intend to terminate his contract effective immediately.’

The team has not given any indication as to what Perry did to warrant being sent home last week without explanation. 

Blackhawks general manager Kyle Davidson addressed the media on Tuesday about the situation, but did not provide further information as to what led to the suspension.

‘As this is an individual personnel matter, I will not be able to disclose any details related to the initial reporting, investigation or the findings,’ Davidson said. ‘However, I do want to be very clear on this one point: This does not involve any players or their families, and anything that suggests otherwise, or anyone that suggests otherwise, is wildly inaccurate, and frankly, it’s disgusting.

‘This has been a tough situation and I understand you wanted answers. It was important that we took all the necessary steps before sharing more. I hope you can understand that I may not be able to answer everything today, but I am going to be as open and honest as I can be given the situation and out of respect for those involved.’

Perry, 38, was acquired by the Blackhawks in June from the Tampa Bay Lightning to give the team, featuring No. 1 overall draft pick Connor Bedard, some veteran leadership. He is currently tied for fourth on the team in scoring this season with four goals and five assists.

The 18-year veteran won the Stanley Cup with Anaheim in 2007, and later reached the Cup Finals three consecutive seasons with three different teams (Dallas, Montreal and Tampa Bay from 2020-22), before losing each year.