The Chicago Blackhawks placed Corey Perry on waivers on Tuesday and are making plans to terminate his contract.
"After an internal investigation, the Chicago Blackhawks have determined that Corey Perry has 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," the club said in a statement.
"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."
Perry, 38, signed a one-year, $4-million contract with the team on June 30.
When contacted by Sportsnet, a spokesman for the NHLPA said, "We are reviewing the matter.” The union has 60 days from when the contract is terminated to file a grievance.
After four goals and nine points in 16 games, Perry did not play last Wednesday in Columbus under mysterious circumstances. On Saturday, GM Kyle Davidson said the winger would be away from the team “for the foreseeable future,” while agent Pat Morris put out a statement indicating Perry stepped away “to attend to personal matters,” while requesting privacy.
To terminate the contract, the Blackhawks would need to put Perry on waivers for that specific reason. Should he not be claimed, Perry would have the option to file a grievance through the NHLPA if he felt there was reason to do so.
