Corey Perry’s Exit from Edmonton Could Come Back to Haunt the Oilers

Perry Was More Than Just a Forward

When Corey Perry joined the Edmonton Oilers, he wasn’t just another name on the roster. Even at 40, he brought energy, grit, and a playoff-ready attitude that made teammates better. He didn’t hang back waiting for chances—he went to the hard areas, battled defenders, and made the moments that mattered count. In 2024–25, Perry played 81 regular-season games, scoring 19 goals and adding 11 assists. Then in the playoffs, he contributed 10 goals and 4 assists. Numbers like that at 40? Not too common.

Still Turning Heads in L.A.

Now with the Los Angeles Kings for 2025–26, Perry hasn’t slowed down. In 12 games, he’s already notched 7 goals and 4 assists, sitting at plus-five. He’s the kind of player who can tilt a game in a single shift. Defenders know better than to leave him unchecked, and even at this stage, he’s making his presence felt every night; not surprising to long-time Perry fans.

What Edmonton Gave Up

Letting Perry walk wasn’t just about salary or age. The Oilers lost a player who could swing momentum, draw penalties, and give veteran guidance in critical moments. That leadership is often invisible until it’s missing—and then you really notice it.

A Risk for a Team Chasing the Stanley Cup

Edmonton is in win-now mode, and losing a player like Perry leaves a hole that’s hard to fill. Not just in stats, but in energy, toughness, and playoff experience. As Perry keeps producing in L.A., it’s fair to wonder if the Oilers underestimated what he added to the team. Sometimes the difference isn’t flashy skill—it’s the guy willing to do the dirty work in the hard areas, game in game out. Perry has always been that guy.