Is the 38-year-old forward ready to sign with Edmonton? Perry has had sketchy season, starting with Chicago in the summer. It's all reviewed in our coverage in the links below.
Blackhawks general manager Kyle Davidson choked up and fought tears as he answered reporters questions on Nov. 28 after putting Corey Perry on waivers to release the veteran forward.
The 38-year-old Perry, along with 36-year-old Nick Foligno, were both acquired to fill not just leadership, but "dad-like" roles on rebuilding Chicago. The two were supposed to look out for Connor Bedard and other kids.
Perry is by far the crustier or the two veterans. That didn't mean the Blackhawks' youngsters weren't warming up to him.
But Perry had violated team policy with his what was reported as "alcohol fueled" behavior at an event in November. In the aftermath of mishandling the 2010 Brad Aldrich sexual assault case, the Blackhawks had pledged their fans and the hockey world zero tolerance for HR violations and misconduct.
Davidson divulged only that whatever Perry did was a "workplace matter" and didn't involve law enforcement.
Perry later apologized in a statement, saying he would see help on mental health and alcohol matters.
Due Diligence?
But Davidson also all-but admitted in the Nov. 28 press conference at the United Center to inadequate due-diligence on Perry. It was an emotional day, capped with a trade for forward Anthony Beauvillier and a 4-3 Chicago win over Seattle.
Davidson acquired Perry from Tampa Bay and signed him to a a one-year, $4 million contract in late June. Perry's presence came highly recommended by coach Luke Richardson, who liked how the veteran worked with young players in Montréal when Richardson was an assistant with the Canadiens.
Now is it Ken Holland's turn to role the dice?
Perry at Lightning on Nov. 9.The Edmonton Oilers GM has reportedly been interested for weeks in adding Perry to his surging team's roster. The Oilers have won 12 straight to climb squarely back into the playoff picture... where they were expected to be all along.
Perry has been eligible to sign with any team since Chicago cut him. He didn't need NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman's permission to return, but he met with Bettman earlier this month.
Perry reportedly discussed his steps to deal with alcohol and behavioral issues.