NHL

Connor Bedard is now weighing in on the unfounded rumors that his former teammate, Corey Perry, slept with his mom ... and he was adamant on Friday they're straight up "BS."

The Blackhawks superstar didn't mince words when a reporter asked him about the crass gossip that's surrounded Chicago's hockey team for the past few days ahead of their Saturday game against the Jets in Winnipeg.

"It's just a bunch of BS on the internet," Bedard said, before admitting, "It's of course been an effect on myself and my family."

"And that's not fair," he continued, according to Blackhawks beat reporter Ben Pope. "But it's out of our control. It's all just fake, made-up stuff."

Bedard is now the third person to deny the baseless allegations that first formulated on X late last month ... joining Blackhawks GM Kyle Davidson and Perry himself.

It seems he'll likely be the last, too, because according to hockey reporter Jacob Stoller, Bedard "became annoyed as the questions" about the Perry rumors continued during his Friday meeting with the media.

"I don't need to answer anymore questions about this stuff," Bedard said.

Perry was cut by the Blackhawks on Tuesday -- and while a specific reason for his departure was never given by the team ... it reportedly all had to do with an "alcohol-infused incident" with team staffers and corporate sponsors.

In a statement Perry released on Thursday, the 38-year-old apologized for his "inappropriate and wrong" behavior.

Ex-Chicago Blackhawks player Corey Perry is breaking his silence ... apologizing for his actions and adamantly denying the reason he got kicked off the team had anything to do with Connor Bedard's mother.

The 38-year-old Canadian had his contract terminated earlier this week ... after the team said he violated the Blackhawks' internal policies over "conduct that is unacceptable."

The move came days after folks on social media spread a rumor that Perry hooked up with Bedard's mom, Melanie ... and the chatter got so loud, Blackhawks GM Kyle Davidson had to address the "wildly inaccurate" and "disgusting" claims.

Now, Perry is also speaking out on the situation ... and he, too, is confronting the false narrative head-on.

"As a result of my actions, there has been speculation and rumors," Perry said in a statement. "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."

While details surrounding the specific incident have not been disclosed, Perry was reportedly involved in an "alcohol-infused incident" with team staffers and corporate sponsors prior to getting cut.

Perry said he is now seeking mental health and alcohol treatment ... in hopes he doesn't repeat his actions moving forward.

"I hope to regain the trust and respect of everyone who has believed in me throughout my career," he added.

Chicago Blackhawks GM Kyle Davidson addressed the wild rumors surrounding Corey Perry shortly after he was kicked off the team ... saying the winger's contract termination had nothing to do with superstar Connor Bedard's mother.

Perry was placed on unconditional waivers following an internal investigation on Tuesday ... in which the team determined he "engaged in conduct that is unacceptable" and violated the terms of his contract and the Blackhawks' internal policies.

The move came on the heels of speculation Perry was involved in a personal relationship with Bedard's mom, Melanie ... and while the talk didn't hold much weight, many ran with it on social media.

Davidson cleared the air after the team washed its hands of Perry ... and even though he did not mention Bedard by name, it's clear that's what he was addressing.

"This does not involve any players or their families and anything that suggests otherwise or anyone that suggests otherwise is wildly inaccurate and, frankly, it's disgusting," Davidson said.

"This has been a tough situation and I understand you wanted answers. It was important that we took all the necessary steps before sharing more. I hope you understand that I may not be able to answer everything today, but I am going to be as open and honest as I can be given the situation and out of respect for those involved."

Davidson referred to the nature of Perry's violation as a "workplace matter."

Meghan Markle and Prince Harry are getting back to their North American roots ... making a surprise trip to Canada's British Columbia to pump up the crowd at a Vancouver Canucks game.

The Duke of Sussex dropped the ceremonial first puck before the NHL action ... following in the footsteps of his grandmother, Queen Elizabeth, who did the same honors 21 years earlier.

Harry and Megs were twinning in their all-black ensemble as they kicked back in a luxury suite during the game -- but they were quick to jump up and cheer when the home team scored a goal ... and danced to a little Simple Minds 80s jam.

Harry didn't quite pull-off the white man's overbite, but came dangerously close as he celebrated the Canucks' big win.

Remember, the Duke and Duchess were locals ... living on Vancouver Island immediately after the Megxit in 2019, before flying south to put down roots in SoCal.

They're back in Canada to promote Harry's Invictus Games, which will be held in Vancouver and Whistler in February 2025.

Meghan Markle y el Príncipe Harry están volviendo a sus raíces norteamericanas, haciendo un viaje sorpresa a la Columbia Británica de Canadá para sorprender a la multitud en un partido de los Vancouver Canucks.

El duque de Sussex dejó caer el primer disco ceremonial antes de la acción de la NHL siguiendo los pasos de su abuela, la reina Isabel, que hizo los mismos honores 21 años antes.

Harry y Meg estaban combinados totalmente de negro, se relajaron en una suite de lujo durante el juego y se apresuraron a saltar y animar cuando el equipo local anotó un gol. Incluso bailaron un poco de Simple Minds (todo muy 80s).

Harry no llegó a la euforia total, pero se acercó peligrosamente mientras celebraba la gran victoria de los Canucks.

Recordemos que el duque y la duquesa eran locales, ya que viven en la isla de Vancouver inmediatamente después de la Megxit en 2019, antes de volar al sur para echar raíces en SoCal.

Están de vuelta en Canadá para promover los Juegos Invictus de Harry que se celebrarán en Vancouver y Whistler en febrero de 2025.

El ex prometido de Savannah Chrisley, Nic Kerdiles, tenía alcohol en su sistema cuando murió a principios de este año luego de un fatal accidente de motocicleta, esto de acuerdo con el médico forense.

De acuerdo con el informe de la autopsia, obtenido por TMZ, las autoridades de Nashville encontraron evidencia de etanol en el torrente sanguíneo de Kerdiles después de las pruebas de toxicología y estiman que su BAC es de alrededor de 0.124, muy por encima del límite legal.

Los funcionarios señalan el cuerpo de Kerdiles quedó bastante golpeado como resultado del accidente; incluyendo múltiples huesos rotos, contusiones en el cerebro y otros daños. El forense determinó que la causa de la muerte fueron múltiples lesiones traumáticas contundentes, por lo que el accidente fue accidental. Radar Online fue el primero en informar de la noticia.

TMZ lo dijo primero, Kerdiles  —un ex jugador de la NHL para los Patos de Anaheim— chocó con un coche mientras viajaba a altas horas de la noche un fin de semana en septiembre, cuando la policía dice que voló más allá de una señal de stop y golpeó el lado de un cruce de BMW.

Fue una tragedia absoluta, sobre todo teniendo en cuenta su última foto oficial en redes sociales que, literalmente, lo mostraba montando su moto y etiquetándose a sí mismo como un "Night rider".

Savannah, que había estado comprometida con Nic entre 2018 y 2020, estaba devastada por la noticia y publicó un homenaje a Nic, escribiendo: "El cielo ganó el ángel más hermoso hoy, te extraño y te amo", mientras agregaba: "Te amamos mucho y no puedo esperar a andar en bicicleta contigo por las playas del cielo algún día".

Antes de que terminaran su relación, Nic había aparecido en el programa de su familia, "Chrisley Knows Best", y su propuesta a ella fue capturada en cámara.

Savannah Chrisley's ex-fiancé, Nic Kerdiles, had alcohol in his system when he died earlier this year after a fatal motorcycle crash ... this according to the medical examiner.

According to the autopsy report, obtained by TMZ, the ME in Nashville found evidence of ethanol in Kerdiles' bloodstream after toxicology tests were done ... and they estimate his BAC at about 0.124, well over the legal limit.

Officials note Kerdiles' body was pretty banged up as a result of the accident -- including multiple broken bones, bruising of the brain and other abrasions. The Medical Examiner found the cause of death to be multiple blunt traumatic injuries ... ruling it as accidental. Radar Online was the first to report the news.

TMZ broke the story ... Kerdiles -- a former NHL player for the Anaheim Ducks -- collided with a car while riding late at night one weekend back in September, when cops say he blew past a stop sign and struck the side of a crossing BMW.

It was an absolute tragedy, especially considering his last official photo on social media -- which literally showed him riding his bike, and labeling himself a "Night rider."

Savannah, who'd been engaged to Nic between 2018 and 2020, was devastated by the news ... and posted a tribute to Nic in the aftermath, writing -- "Heaven gained the most beautiful angel today ... I miss you and I love you," while adding, "We loved hard ... and I can't wait to ride bikes with you along the beaches of heaven one day."

Before they ended their relationship, Nic had been featured on her family's show, "Chrisley Knows Best" ... and his proposal to her was even captured on camera.

La policía de Inglaterra dice que ha puesto a un hombre en custodia esta semana, luego de que afirman que el hombre tenía una conexión con la muerte del ex jugador de la NHL Adam Johnson.

Según la policía de South Yorkshire, el hombre fue arrestado bajo sospecha de homicidio involuntario el martes, 17 días después de la trágica muerte de Johnson a causa de las heridas que sufrió cuando el patín de Matt Petgrave le cortó en el cuello durante un partido de la Elite Ice Hockey League.

Al anunciar la detención, la policía no dijo si Petgrave era el hombre que tenían en custodia

"Nuestra investigación se inició inmediatamente después de la tragedia y hemos estado llevando a cabo extensas investigaciones desde entonces para reconstruir los acontecimientos que condujeron a la pérdida de Adán en estas circunstancias sin precedentes". El detective superintendente en jefe Becs Horsfall dijo de la detención en un comunicado.

"Hemos hablado con expertos altamente especializados en su campo para que nos ayuden y seguimos colaborando estrechamente con el departamento de salud y seguridad del Ayuntamiento de Sheffield que está apoyando nuestra investigación en curso".

Johnson jugaba en Inglaterra con los Nottingham Panthers contra los Sheffield Steelers cuando ocurrió la tragedia.

Video de la arena mostró el momento en que Johnson estaba cruzando la línea azul, Petgrave pateó su patín en el aire y cortó al ex centro de los Pittsburgh Penguins en la garganta. La sangre se derramó inmediatamente sobre el hielo y Johnson fue llevado al hospital para recibir tratamiento de emergencia. Lamentablemente, sucumbió a sus heridas.

La policía reveló el martes que "un examen post-mortem confirmó que murió como resultado de una lesión fatal en el cuello".

"La muerte de Adam ha conmocionado a muchas comunidades, desde nuestros residentes locales aquí en Sheffield hasta los aficionados al hockey sobre hielo de todo el mundo", dijo Horsfall. "Sabemos que estas comunidades esperan que llevemos esta investigación con la misma profesionalidad, imparcialidad y sensibilidad que cualquier otra y le pedimos a los miembros del público que se abstengan de hacer comentarios y especulaciones que puedan entorpecer este proceso. Nuestros pensamientos están con todos los afectados por este devastador incidente mientras continúan las investigaciones".

Los Panthers, por su parte, habían calificado inicialmente la muerte de Johnson de "accidente extraño".

Cops in England say they have placed a man in custody this week ... after they claim the guy had a connection to the death of ex-NHL player Adam Johnson.

According to South Yorkshire Police ... the man was arrested on suspicion of manslaughter on Tuesday -- 17 days after Johnson tragically died from injuries he suffered when Matt Petgrave's skate slashed him in the neck during an Elite Ice Hockey League game.

In announcing the arrest, cops did not say if Petgrave was the man they had in custody.

"Our investigation launched immediately following this tragedy and we have been carrying out extensive enquiries ever since to piece together the events which led to the loss of Adam in these unprecedented circumstances," SYP detective chief superintendent Becs Horsfall said of the arrest in a statement.

"We have been speaking to highly specialised experts in their field to assist in our enquiries and continue to work closely with the health and safety department at Sheffield City Council, which is supporting our ongoing investigation."

Johnson was playing for the Nottingham Panthers against the Sheffield Steelers in England when the tragedy happened.

Video from the arena showed as Johnson was crossing the blueline, Petgrave kicked his skate into the air ... and clipped the former Pittsburgh Penguins center in the throat. Blood immediately poured onto the ice -- and while Johnson was rushed to the hospital for emergency treatment, he sadly succumbed to his injuries.

Cops revealed Tuesday "a post-mortem examination confirmed he died as a result of a fatal neck injury."

"Adam's death has sent shockwaves through many communities, from our local residents here in Sheffield to ice hockey fans across the world," Horsfall said. "We know these communities will expect us to handle this investigation with the same professionalism, fairness and sensitivity as any other and request that members of the public refrain from comment and speculation which could hinder this process. Our thoughts remain with all affected by this devastating incident as enquiries continue."

The Panthers, meanwhile, had initially called Johnson's death "a freak accident."

The English Ice Hockey Association is changing its rules following the tragic death of Adam Johnson ... now making it mandatory for players to wear neck guards starting in January.

The org. announced the decision Monday, saying in a statement, "the safety of our players must take precedence above all else."

"We are firmly committed to our obligation to exhaust every possible means to ensure that a tragic incident of this nature never befalls our sport again," the EIHA said.

The new mandate comes roughly 48 hours after Johnson died following injuries he suffered when he was slashed in the throat by a skate during an on-ice collision.

EIHA officials initially said the incident was "a freak accident" ... though South Yorkshire Police said Sunday they are investigating the matter.

Johnson was just 29 years old.

While neck guards will still be optional for the remainder of '23 ... the EIHA said it's making a "strong recommendation" that players wear them while skating on the ice.

It added that the mandatory rule change would have been implemented immediately if not for anticipated supply issues.

"It is unacceptable for any player to lose their life while playing sport," the EIHA said. "Our responsibility is not only to avert the recurrence of such a heart-breaking accident, but also to pre-emptively address other foreseeable incidents in the future."

EIHA officials said more rule changes could be coming down in the near future ... saying in its statement, "We bear both a legal and a moral obligation to respond in a measured and pragmatic way."

El ex jugador de la NHL Adam Johnson murió trágicamente este fin de semana después de que su cuello fuera cortado por una cuchilla de patín durante un partido el sábado.

Solo tenía 29 años.

Johnson estaba jugando en un partido de la Elite Ice Hockey League para las Panteras de Nottingham en Inglaterra cuando ocurrió el horrible momento.

Mientras el ex pívot de los Pingüinos de Pittsburgh llevaba el disco a través de la línea azul, un jugador rival de los Sheffield Steelers lanzó su patín al aire y golpeó a Johnson en la zona de la garganta. Johnson fue sacado rápidamente del hielo y recibió tratamiento inmediato pero más tarde sucumbió a sus heridas.

La policía de South Yorkshire dijo que los oficiales estaban en la escena y actualmente están investigando "las circunstancias que rodearon el incidente".

"Nos gustaría animar al público a evitar la especulación sobre el incidente mientras continuamos nuestras investigaciones", dijo el SYP.

Los Panthers, por su parte, calificaron el momento como "un extraño accidente" añadiendo que están "verdaderamente devastados".

"A los Panthers les gustaría enviar nuestros pensamientos y condolencias a la familia de Adam, a su pareja y a todos sus amigos en este momento extremadamente difícil", dijo el equipo. "Todos en el club, incluidos los jugadores, el personal, la dirección y la propiedad, están desconsolados por la noticia del fallecimiento de Adam".

Johnson jugó para los Penguins en las temporadas 2018 y 2019, registrando un gol y tres asistencias en 13 partidos. Pasó a jugar profesionalmente en el extranjero y acababa de firmar para patinar para los Panthers esta temporada.

"Los Pittsburgh Penguins se unen a todo el mundo del hockey en el duelo por la pérdida de Adam Johnson, cuya vida terminó trágicamente demasiado pronto", dijeron los Penguins en un comunicado el domingo. "Ofrecemos nuestras más profundas condolencias a la familia y amigos de Adam, así como a todos los compañeros de equipo y entrenadores pasados y presentes de Adam. Adam siempre formará parte de la familia de los Penguins. Fue un honor para nosotros verle cumplir su sueño de jugar en la Liga Nacional de Hockey".

Los Panthers anunciaron el domingo que su partido del martes contra el Glasgow Clan ha sido aplazado tras la muerte de Johnson. Se estaban estudiando otros cambios en el calendario, añadió el equipo.

Former NHL player Adam Johnson tragically died this weekend after his neck was slashed by a skate blade during a game on Saturday.

He was just 29 years old.

Johnson was playing in an Elite Ice Hockey League game for the Nottingham Panthers in England when the horrifying moment happened.

As the ex-Pittsburgh Penguins center was taking the puck across the blue line, an opposing player on the Sheffield Steelers kicked his skate into the air and struck Johnson in the throat area. Johnson was rushed off the ice and received immediate treatment ... but he later succumbed to his injuries.

South Yorkshire Police said officers were on the scene and are currently investigating "the circumstances surrounding the incident."

"We would encourage the public to avoid speculation regarding the incident while we continue our enquiries," the SYP said.

The Panthers, meanwhile, called the moment "a freak accident" ... adding that they're "truly devastated" over it all.

"The Panthers would like to send our thoughts and condolences to Adam's family, his partner and all his friends at this extremely difficult time," the team said. "Everyone at the club including players, staff, management and ownership are heartbroken at the news of Adam's passing."

Johnson played for the Penguins in the 2018 and 2019 seasons -- logging a goal and three assists in 13 games. He went on to play professionally overseas ... and had just signed on to skate for the Panthers this season.

"The Pittsburgh Penguins join the entire hockey world in mourning the loss of Adam Johnson, whose life tragically ended far too soon," the Penguins said in a statement Sunday. "We offer our deepest condolences to Adam's family and friends, as well as all of Adam's past and present teammates and coaches. Adam will always be a part of the Penguins family. It was our honor to watch him fulfill his dream of playing in the National Hockey League."

The Panthers announced Sunday their game against the Glasgow Clan on Tuesday has been postponed in the wake of Johnson's death. Further changes to the schedule were being considered, the team added.

The NHL just handed down its first sports betting-related punishment in league history -- suspending Ottawa Senators center Shane Pinto 41 games for "activities relating to sports wagering."

It's unclear what exactly Pinto did to draw the ban, but the league stated an investigation determined there was "no evidence" he bet on any NHL games.

Shane addressed the punishment on Thursday ... saying, "I want to apologize to the National Hockey League, the Ottawa Senators, my teammates, the fans and city of Ottawa and most importantly my family."

"I take full responsibility for my actions and look forward to getting back on the ice with my team."

According to the league's collective bargaining agreement, players are prohibited from betting on any NHL games, but are free to throw money on other sports.

22-year-old Pinto -- the 32nd overall pick in the 2019 NHL Draft -- had 35 points in 82 games for the Senators last season ... but has not suited up for the squad yet this year.

The Sens also addressed the league's decision ... adding, "Shane is a valued member of our hockey club; an engaging, intelligent young man who made poor decisions that have resulted in a suspension by the National Hockey League. We know he is remorseful for his mistakes."

"The Ottawa Senators fully support the NHL’s rules on gambling. While saddened to learn of this issue, the entire organization remains committed to Shane and will work together to do what is necessary to help provide the support to allow him to address his issues and become a strong contributor to our community."

The NFL has also handed down betting bans recently ... suspending players like Jameson Williams, Calvin Ridley and Isaiah Rodgers.

Barry Melrose -- considered by many to be the best NHL analyst on television -- has sadly been diagnosed with Parkinson's ... and he'll now be stepping away from his role at ESPN while he battles the disease.

Longtime ESPN personality John Buccigross just made the heartbreaking announcement minutes ago on X ... revealing Melrose will be off camera and spending time with his family for the foreseeable future.

"I've worked with Barry at ESPN for over a quarter century," Buccigross said. "Cold beers and hearty laughs in smokey cigar bars. A razor sharp wit, he was always early & looked like a million bucks. I love him. I'll miss him."

"Wayne Gretzky on a life dedicated to hockey," he added.

Melrose both played and coached in the NHL for years ... before he began breaking down games for ESPN beginning in 1996. He took a brief hiatus from the network to coach the Lightning, but returned a short time later.

He's since become a mainstay on NHL broadcasts -- so much so, commissioner Gary Bettman said Tuesday, "Hockey on ESPN won't be the same without him."

"Barry's gigantic personality and trademark style have made our game bigger, more exciting and more entertaining," Bettman said.

"His love for hockey is obvious and infectious. And it is impossible to have a conversation with him without a smile on your face."

Barry Melrose —considerado por muchos como el mejor analista de la NHL en la televisión— ha sido tristemente diagnosticado con Parkinson y se alejará de ESPN mientras lucha contra la enfermedad.

John Buccigross, personalidad de ESPN desde hace mucho tiempo, acaba de hacer el desgarrador anuncio hace unos minutos en X, revelando que Melrose estará fuera de las cámaras y pasará tiempo con su familia en el futuro inmediato.

"He trabajado con Barry en ESPN durante más de un cuarto de siglo", dijo Buccigross. "Cervezas frías y carcajadas en bares llenos de humo. Ingenioso, siempre llegaba a tiempo y es sin duda un gran tipo. Lo quiero y lo voy a extrañar".

"Wayne Gretzky en una vida dedicada al hockey", añadió.

Melrose jugó y entrenó en la NHL durante años, antes de empezar a desglosar partidos para ESPN a partir de 1996. Hizo una breve pausa en la cadena para entrenar a los Lightning, pero regresó poco después.

Desde entonces se ha convertido en un pilar de las transmisiones de la NHL, tanto así, que el comisionado Gary Bettman dijo el martes: "Hockey en ESPN no será lo mismo sin él".

"La gigantesca personalidad de Barry y su estilo característico han hecho nuestro juego más grande, más emocionante y más entretenido", dijo Bettman.

"Su amor por el hockey es obvio y contagioso. Y es imposible mantener una conversación con él sin una sonrisa en la cara".

Savannah Chrisley's ex-fiancé, Nic Kerdiles, died in a motorcycle crash this week ... TMZ has learned.

Nashville PD tells us Kerdiles passed away early Saturday morning as a result of injuries sustained following an accident around 3:30 AM ... when they say he ran through a stop sign in a residential area north of central Nashville.

Cops say he struck the driver's side of a BMW with his Indian Motorcycle. We're told the other driver stopped immediately -- and that Kerdiles was transported to a local hospital ... where he later died. The police note ... there were no signs of impairment from either driver.

We've confirmed Kerdiles' DOB with police. Tragically, NK also posted a photo of himself on his IG story last night that shows him cruising around on his Indian bike. A caption attached reads "Night rider."

Kerdiles had been engaged to Todd and Julie Chrisley's second daughter, Savannah, for a bit between 2018 and 2020 ... when she called it off and broke up with Nic. They'd been dating since 2017, and he was even featured on her parents' reality show, "Chrisley Knows Best."

Of the breakup, Savannah has said ... "When we got engaged, I feel like it was for all the wrong reasons. When he proposed, I knew it shouldn't have been happening. It was filmed, it was on TV. His family was there, my family was there. It was not the way I would want it to go down, ever."

She went on to say ... "Everything was just wrong at the time. Granted, I loved him, I was in love with him. It was just, there was so much more work that needed to be done before you got married."

Nic comes from a hockey background, having played at the college level for a while ... before a brief stint professionally with the Anaheim Ducks in the 2010s. He bounced around for a little bit before hanging up his hockey career in 2018 ... having played for a total of 4 years.

Most recently, Nic had been working as real estate broker in the Nashville area. He had no children of his own -- but most certainly was close to his family ... including his nieces and nephews -- with whom he just posted a bunch of sweet pictures earlier this month.

One of Nic's last posts is heartbreaking to read. At the time he wrote, "Getting to go home this past weekend and seeing my family was something that I need more than I knew."

Nic adds, "Time in this life goes by quicker and quicker each day. I will never again take the these days with them for granted and my advice is the same for everyone else. Love is unconditional, and it’s rare to find in this world. I’m so thankful that I have parents, siblings, nieces and nephews that love me back the way they do. I’ve already booked my next trip back home and I cannot wait to see them again soon! Love you guys all so much!"

We've reached out to Nic's family for comment, but haven't been able to connect. We've also reached out to Savannah's rep ... so far, no word back.

Nic was only 29. RIP