Galchenyuk apologizes for "deeply offensive" and "embarrassing" behaviour after arrest
NHL journeyman Alex Galchenyuk has broken his silence after jarring news came out last week about the reasons behind his sudden contract termination.
Signing a one-year contract with the Arizona Coyotes on July 1, the organization abruptly terminated his contract less than two weeks after it was inked.
Details then emerged of Galchenyuk’s arrest for a hit-and-run earlier this month, where he allegedly told a police officer that he would “end his bloodline,” among other threats, per a police report obtained by Arizona NBC affiliate station 12 News.
In a pair of similar statements posted to his Twitter account, Galchenyuk apologized for his actions while also confirming that he’d be checking himself into the NHL/NHLPA Player Assistance program.
— Alex Galchenyuk (@AGally94) July 18, 2023
— Alex Galchenyuk (@AGally94) July 18, 2023
“My behavior last week was deeply offensive, uncalled for, horrendous, embarrassing, disrespectful, and just plain awful,” Galchenyuk wrote. “I let you all down and I am truly sorry. While this behavior after drinking alcohol is not representative of who I am, I do have to take responsibility for it. My actions have cost me my chance to do what I love, play professional hockey.”
Galchenyuk had previously spent two different stints with the Coyotes, in 2018-19 and 2021-22, while having played for seven different teams — including the Montreal Canadiens and Toronto Maple Leafs — since being drafted third overall by the Habs in 2021.
“I was very much looking forward to starting my life with my wife here in Arizona, playing alongside some of the best in the NHL and entertaining the incredible fan base the Coyotes have built here,” Galchenyuk said.
Most recently, he was on a one-year contract with the Colorado Avalanche, where he spent 11 games in the NHL while also playing 49 combined regular and postseason games with the Colorado Eagles in the AHL.
“By checking myself into the NHL/NHLPA Assistance Program, I hope to get the help I need and to ensure I never make a mistake like this again,” Galchenyuk added. “Again, I am sorry I let you down and I hope over time and with hard work, I can show all of you I am a better person than this horrendous moment.”
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