NHL's Corey Perry Breaks Silence on Rumors About Relationship With Teammate's Mom
NHL player Corey Perry has been on thin ice in the past week, to say the least. On Nov. 29, the Chicago Blackhawks terminated his contract after he reportedly violated team policies with "conduct that is unacceptable." After the team cut him loose, rumors began swirling that he had an inappropriate relationship with the mother of his teammate Connor Bedard. But according to Perry himself, nothing could be farther from the truth.
Blackhawks general manager Kyle Davidson first shut down the accusations of a one-night stand. "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," he said.
Once his contract was terminated, Perry apologized to his teammates and the entire Blackhawks organization and explained that he's looking to make some positive changes in his life.
"As a result of my actions, there has been speculation and rumors. 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," he stated plainly. "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."
Related: Connor Bedard Addresses Rumors of Corey Perry's Affair With His Mom
Details around the specific incident that led to his ouster haven't been disclosed, but according to TMZ, he was reportedly involved in an "alcohol-infused incident" with team staffers. While Perry didn't confirm or deny the claim, he admitted in his statement that he was seeking help.
"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," he said. "I hope to regain the trust and respect of everyone who has believed in me throughout my career."
The Chicago Blackhawks will continue without Perry in their next game against the Detroit Red Wings on Nov. 30.