‘I am deeply sorry’: Corey Perry apologizes to Blackhawks, fans and family

Corey Perry released a statement, apologizing for his actions and admitting he's taking steps to address his issues with alcohol abuse.

Corey Perry released a statement regarding his mysterious contract termination Thursday, apologizing to his fans, teammates and family, but failed to shed any more light on why he was dropped from the Chicago Blackhawks.

“I would like to sincerely apologize to the entire Chicago Blackhawks organization, including ownership, management, coaches, trainers, employees, and my teammates. I would also like to apologize to my fans, and my family. I am embarrassed and I have let you all down,” Perry wrote in his statement, which was shared to X by Hockey Night in Canada‘s Elliotte Friedman.

“As a result of my actions, there has been speculation and rumours. 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 behaviour was inappropriate and wrong.”

On Tuesday, a startling revelation was made that Perry had been placed on waivers by the Blackhawks with the purpose of terminating his contract. The news came more than a week after Perry had mysteriously disappeared from the Blackhawks lineup.

“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 contract and the Blackhawks’ internal policies intended to promote professional and safe work environments,” the statement read.

“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.”