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Connor Bedard has addressed rumours that circulated all week leading up to teammate Corey Perry being cut loose by the Chicago Blackhawks, calling the gossip “BS.”
Bedard was asked about the past week by media in Winnipeg after the Blackhawks practised at Canada Life Centre on Friday in preparation for Saturday’s matinee against the Jets.
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The player offered a response.
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“It’s just a bunch of BS on the internet. It’s of course been an effect on myself and my family, and that’s not fair. But it’s out of our control. It’s all just fake, made-up stuff,” Bedard said.
While specifics surrounding Perry’s ouster remain unclear, Blackhawks general manager Kyle Davidson quickly shot down rumours during a news conference earlier this week that suggested Perry’s termination was tied to misconduct involving the family of Bedard, the team’s No. 1 draft pick.
The team waived Perry on Tuesday after an investigation into “unacceptable” behaviour, which kicked the rumour mill into high gear. He cleared waivers Wednesday with no other team placing a claim on the former Hart Trophy winner.
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ESPN reported that Perry and the team travelled to Columbus on Nov. 21, a day before the Blackhawks were set to play the Blue Jackets. While there, an incident with a team employee occurred and led to Perry being pulled from the game the next day and the investigation being set in motion.
According to the report, it’s unclear exactly where the incident took place.
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However, a report later Wednesday from Daily Faceoff reporter Frank Seravalli suggested booze might have been involved.
Citing sources, Daily Faceoff said an “alcohol-fueled incident involving Perry” was alleged to have happened during “an event that included corporate partners and team employees in attendance.”
It’s not yet clear what allegedly took place, who witnessed it, and who reported it to the team, Daily Faceoff reported.
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On Thursday, Perry issued a lengthy statement that included an apology.
“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,” the statement read.
“As a result of my actions, there has been speculation and rumors. 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 behavior was inappropriate and wrong.
“I have started working with experts in the mental health and substance abuse fields to discuss my struggles with alcohol and I will take whatever steps necessary to ensure this never happens again. I hope to regain the trust and respect of everyone who has believed in me throughout my career.
“Once again, I am deeply sorry.”
Earlier in the day, Bedard was named the NHL’s rookie of the month after collecting six goals and 12 points in a dozen contests.
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