Corey Perry, the controversial figure who faced termination from the Chicago Blackhawks, might make a surprising comeback to the NHL. After a meeting with NHL commissioner Gary Bettman, Perry has been given the green light to sign with a new team, leaving hockey fans divided on his potential return.
Last year, on Nov. 30, Corey Perry found himself mired in controversy when the Chicago Blackhawks terminated his contract. This decision came after he was unexpectedly removed from the lineup prior to a 7-3 loss to the Columbus Blue Jackets on Nov. 22. Perry was subsequently placed on waivers and, after going unclaimed, the Blackhawks officially dissolved his contract. The club issued a statement, citing Perry’s engagement in unacceptable conduct and violation of internal policies.
Insider Elliotte Friedman revealed that Perry had a meeting with NHL commissioner Gary Bettman on Tuesday, during which he received permission to rejoin the league and sign with a new team.
Following the termination of his contract, the 38-year-old became an unrestricted free agent, making him eligible to sign with any team. Unsurprisingly, fans on X, formerly Twitter, expressed mixed reactions to Perry’s potential return. One fan tweeted a thought-provoking question:
“Would you really want him back if he never got treatment?”
Another fan tweeted as,
“Perry’s apology seems genuine. If he’s taken the necessary steps to address his issues, he deserves another chance. Everyone deserves redemption.”
Another fan show reaction as,
“No way should Perry be allowed back! His behavior was disgraceful, and it sets a bad example for young players. The NHL needs to take a stand against such actions.”
These mixed reactions reflect the ongoing debate among fans, with some advocating for forgiveness and redemption, while others emphasize the need for accountability and consequences. The potential return of Corey Perry has sparked a divisive conversation within the hockey community.
In response to the controversy, Corey Perry publicly apologized and acknowledged the inappropriateness of his behavior. He expressed his intention to seek help from experts to address his struggles with alcohol. Perry’s apology statement included remorse towards the entire Chicago Blackhawks organization, including ownership, management, coaches, trainers, employees, teammates, as well as his fans and family. He admitted to feeling embarrassed and letting them all down.
Curious about Corey Perry’s NHL career? The 38-year-old free agent was drafted as the 38th overall pick by the Anaheim Ducks in the 2003 NHL draft. He made his league debut during the 2005-06 season and, a year later, won the Stanley Cup with the Ducks. Throughout his career, Perry has accumulated an impressive 19 seasons of experience. He spent 14 years playing for the Ducks, with additional stints at the Tampa Bay Lightning, Dallas Stars, and Montreal Canadiens.
Last summer, the Tampa Bay Lightning traded Corey Perry to the Chicago Blackhawks in exchange for a seventh-round pick in the 2024 draft. Perry remained productive this season, contributing nine points with four goals and five assists in 16 games before parting ways with the Hawks. Overall, this 19-year veteran forward has amassed an impressive total of 892 points, including 421 goals and 471 assists, across 1,273 games.
Corey Perry’s potential return to the NHL has stirred up controversy and divided hockey fans. While some are open to his comeback, others question whether he deserves a second chance considering his past behavior. As the league awaits Perry’s next move, the lasting impact of his actions and his future in professional hockey remain uncertain.
