Blackhawks put Corey Perry on unconditional waivers

The Chicago Blackhawks placed forward Corey Perry on unconditional waivers Tuesday for the purposes of terminating his contract.

"After an internal investigation, the Chicago Blackhawks have determined that 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 team said in a release. "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 has been out of the Blackhawks' lineup since Nov. 19, and team general manager Kyle Davidson said Saturday that the 38-year-old would be away from the team for the "foreseeable future."

Perry's agent, Pat Morris, released a statement on Saturday afternoon.

"Corey Perry has stepped away from the Chicago Blackhawks to attend personal matters," it read. "Corey and his family appreciate privacy at this time."

A former Hart Trophy recipient as the NHL's MVP, Perry has totaled nine points (four goals, five assists) in 16 games this season.

Perry was acquired in a trade from the Tampa Bay Lightning in exchange for a seventh-round pick in the 2024 NHL Draft on June 29. He signed a one-year, $4 million contract with the Blackhawks the following day.

A 2007 Stanley Cup champion with Anaheim, Perry has totaled 892 points (421 goals, 471 assists) in 1,273 career games with the Ducks, Dallas Stars, Montreal Canadiens, Lightning and Blackhawks.