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
Corey Perry is being given a second chance to resume his NHL career.
At age 38, it also could be his last chance.
ESPN reports Perry is signing a one-year deal with the Edmonton Oilers.
The deal is prorated for the league minimum and includes performance bonuses, per ESPN.
Perry gets to join an Oilers team that’s riding a league-best 13-game winning streak.
Edmonton gets to take a look at the former NHL MVP to see if he has any gas left in his tank.
Chicago released Perry in November following what was described as an “alcohol-fueled incident” that included Blackhawks employees and corporate sponsors.
“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 Player’s Contract and the Blackhawks’ internal policies intended to promote professional and safe work environments,” the team said in a release before putting Perry on waivers.
Perry, for his part, owned up to his shortcomings.
“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,” Perry said.
“I hope to regain the trust and respect of everyone who has believed in me throughout my career.”
No one put in a waiver claim for Perry, making him free to sign with any team.
He played just 16 games for the Blackhawks, who acquired him before the season in a trade with the Tampa Bay Lightning.
Perry’s NHL career began with the Anaheim Ducks in 2005 and and peaked six years later when he won the Hart Trophy as the league’s MVP.
The 17-year veteran set career highs that season with 50 goals and 98 points.