The decision to place the seasoned forward on waivers came after an internal investigation unveiled behavior deemed "unacceptable and in violation of policies intended to promote professional and safe work environments." Chris Johnston, an insider, confirmed that Perry has a 60-day window to contest the Blackhawks' decision if he chooses to do so.
"The Blackhawks initiated the termination of that contract on Tuesday by placing him on unconditional waivers. That can happen as soon as Wednesday," disclosed Johnston on Insider Trading. "At that point, there's a chance Perry could have a grievance over this decision. That is something he has 60 days to decide on, and, at this point, it's too soon to know which way he'll go."
He was unexpectedly benched on Nov. 22 against the Columbus Blue Jackets, with the team citing it as an "organizational decision." Rumors circulated that Perry's absence was linked to an alleged involvement with teammate Connor Bedard's mother, Melanie, following the team's trip with players' mothers. However, general manager Kyle Davidson swiftly quashed these rumors, calling them "wildly inaccurate" and "frankly, disgusting."
Perry, whose rights were acquired from the Tampa Bay Lightning in the summer, signed a one-year, $4-million contract with the Blackhawks. In his first season with Chicago, he notched four goals and five assists in 16 games.
Over his illustrious 1,273-game NHL career, Perry accumulated 421 goals and 892 points, playing for the Ducks, Dallas Stars, Montreal Canadiens, Lightning, and now, the Blackhawks. The pressing question now remains: What's next for Corey Perry?
