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Frustrated LaRose skipped exit interview to avoid ‘blowing up’

Chad LaRose

On Sunday, we wrote about the curious case of Chad LaRose, the longtime Carolina Hurricanes forward who reportedly didn’t show up for his end-of-the-season exit interview and whose future in the NHL appeared a bit up in the air.

Today, LaRose offered an explanation for his disappearing act after being tracked down by the News & Observer.

“I needed a cool-off period as opposed to going right in and blowing up,” said LaRose. “Nobody was happy we didn’t make the playoffs again. I took some time, cooled off, and then I went and saw everyone, talked to [general manager Jim Rutherford], paid my respects and thanked them for the opportunity with them.”

LaRose, 31, is an unrestricted free agent coming off a disappointing year in which he tallied just two goals and two assists in 35 games.

When asked if he had any issues with the coaching staff, Larose replied: “I had no issues with anybody. It was my own play. I’m accountable for myself. When the team doesn’t do well, I take it upon myself, to be honest with you. I’m accountable for everything. Not having a good season, not making playoffs -- that’s on me.”

Where his career goes from here remains unclear. According to his agent, LaRose’s goal is to stay in the NHL.

LaRose tied a career high with 19 goals in 2011-12.