GM: Blackhawks cut Perry for ‘workplace matter’

Chicago Blackhawks general manager Kyle Davidson said Tuesday the front office was told during a team trip last week about Corey Perry committing possible misconduct which led to an internal investigation culminating with the team cutting ties with the veteran winger.

Davidson spoke with reporters for 10 minutes to address the team’s decision to move on from Perry after the Blackhawks announced earlier in the day that they placed the 38-year-old on unconditional waivers for the purposes of terminating his contract.

In their initial statement, the Blackhawks alleged Perry engaged in conduct they described as “unacceptable,” and it was in violation of both the terms of his contract and the team’s internal policies that are “intended to promote professional and safework environments.”

“This has been a tough situation and I understand you wanted answers,” Davidson said. “It was important that we took all the necessary steps before sharing more. I hope you can understand that I may not be able to answer everything today. But I am going to be as open and honest as I can be given the situation and out of respect for those involved.”

Upon being asked if the incident itself was criminal or could potentially become criminal, Davidson said, “it was a workplace matter.” Davidson also declined to answer if the incident involved another Blackhawks team employee.

Petrino spent this season as the Texas A&M offensive coordinator and wasn’t retained by new coach Mike Elko after Jimbo Fisher was fired this month. The Aggies defeated the Razorbacks 34-22 on Sept. 30.