The Edmonton Oilers may live to regret allowing veteran forward Corey Perry to walk in free agency, as he signed a one-year, $3.5 million deal with the Los Angeles Kings. Perry's departure, along with Connor Brown's move to the New Jersey Devils, has created a void in Edmonton's offense and leadership.
Perry, who is entering his 21st NHL season, proved he still has plenty to offer during his time with the Oilers. In 81 regular-season games, he scored 19 goals and added 11 assists. More impressively, he elevated his game in the playoffs, notching 10 goals and four assists in 22 games during Edmonton's run to the Stanley Cup Final. This was Perry's highest goal total in the playoffs since 2015.
Beyond his offensive contributions, Perry brought valuable intangibles to the Oilers. He is known as a "heart and soul guy" who provides leadership, character, toughness, and gamesmanship. NHL analyst Gene Principe noted that Perry brings "lots of leadership, lots of gamesmanship, lots of tranquility, lots of experience". Principe believes Perry's departure stings, especially since he only signed for one year with the Kings.
The Oilers were in a difficult salary cap situation, especially with Evan Bouchard also needing a new contract. With limited financial flexibility, Edmonton couldn't match the offer Perry received from Los Angeles. Some reports suggest that the Oilers are aiming to get "faster and younger," which may have factored into their decision not to re-sign the 40-year-old Perry.
However, losing Perry could have a significant impact on the Oilers, particularly in the playoffs. His experience and ability to perform in high-pressure situations are invaluable. As one analyst noted, "He goes in and shoots down anything that he needs to find success". Perry's knack for getting under opponents' skin and his net-front presence on the power play will also be missed.
Moreover, Perry's departure leaves a leadership void in the Oilers' locker room. He has been to the Stanley Cup Final five times in the past six seasons, winning once with the Anaheim Ducks in 2007. Although he has lost his last five appearances, his experience and knowledge are invaluable.
The Oilers have signed forward Andrew Mangiapane to a two-year contract, but it remains to be seen whether he can fill the void left by Perry. Edmonton will need to find a way to replace Perry's production and leadership if they hope to make another deep playoff run.
Interestingly, Perry's move to Los Angeles sets up a potential playoff clash with his former team. The Oilers have eliminated the Kings in the first round of the playoffs for four consecutive seasons, including the past two with Perry on their side. Now, Perry will be looking to help the Kings get revenge and advance further in the playoffs. As Perry said, "I'm just going to let my play speak and go from there. I've got to get them on my side and go from there".
