The Chicago Blackhawks currently have one of the brightest futures in the National Hockey League, with the team acquiring the number one overall pick, Connor Bedard. The team has made some moves in the right direction to be successful for future seasons. But controversy has surrounded the team the past two weeks, surrounding former Anaheim Ducks star, Corey Perry, who was acquired during the offseason and who was supposed to be part of the “veteran core” surrounding Bedard.

Perry’s contract was recently terminated by the Blackhawks and he was placed on waivers and eventually released by the team after his waiver claim period ended. Initial reports on his release provided unclear reasons on why he was released from the roster and had a lot of Hawks fans wondering the true incident of his release. The only reason provided to fans on initial reports was his release as “inappropriate work-place behavior” which the organization deemed unacceptable to teammates and coaching staff, with details being very vague at the start.

According to Bleacher Report, Sportsnet Reporter, Elliotte Friedman said, “After an internal investigation, the Chicago Blackhawks have determined that Corey Perry has engaged in conduct that is unacceptable, and in violation of both the terms of his Standard Players Contract and the Blackhawks’ internal policies intended to promote professional and safe work environments. As such, Corey Perry has been placed on unconditional waivers.”

The initial reports on Perry’s release left many fans confused and rumors even spread that Perry was involved in a relationship with one of his teammate’s mother. While this rumor was proven false by the Blackhawks and his teammates, it did have an effect on the overall culture of the team within the clubhouse and on the ice, and has put a strain on the team during its rebuild.

According to NBC Chicago, Blackhawks head coach, Luke Richardson said, “Obviously it is disappointing that we are in this situation but there is really no second guessing, it also puts a big dent in the team.”

With the Blackhawks currently sitting dead last in wins and points, this incident provides a challenge to the team, losing a player who was supposed to be part of the aging Blackhawks core, and was even given an assistant captain patch for the season is tough for the Blackhawks.

Full details have now surfaced on the actual reasons for Perry’s release, and they relate to an “Alcohol-infused” incident that occurred in the locker room in the morning the day before a game against the Columbus Blue Jackets. This incident led to Perry’s ultimate release, and Perry is currently seeking professional help for his problem.

According to CNN, Perry said in a statement following his release, ““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.”