With the Edmonton Oilers, ageless Corey Perry continues to score goals.

In the fast-paced, physical world of the NHL, it’s rare to see players defy the natural aging curve, but that’s exactly what Corey Perry is doing with the Edmonton Oilers. Known for his tenacity, leadership, and knack for scoring clutch goals, Perry has continued to be an impactful force on the ice despite being well into his 30s. In fact, with the Oilers, the 39-year-old Perry shows no signs of slowing down—continuing to score goals, make plays, and prove that age is just a number when it comes to this ageless wonder.

As of the 2024-2025 season, Perry remains one of the most effective veteran players in the league, contributing both offensively and as a physical presence. His reputation as a goal scorer and a gritty, hard-nosed player who isn’t afraid to get into the dirty areas of the ice has made him a fan favorite everywhere he’s played, and his stint with the Edmonton Oilers is no exception. Despite being on the tail end of his career, Perry continues to find the back of the net and make valuable contributions to the Oilers’ championship aspirations.

In this article, we’ll take an in-depth look at Perry’s enduring ability to score goals, how he has remained effective on the ice, his role with the Oilers, and the impact he’s having on the team’s success. Whether it’s his leadership, his clutch performances, or his veteran presence, Corey Perry has proven that age is no obstacle to being one of the best in the game.

A Long and Storied Career

Corey Perry’s career has been defined by consistency, competitiveness, and a knack for scoring goals. Drafted by the Anaheim Ducks in the first round of the 2003 NHL Draft, Perry quickly established himself as one of the league’s premier power forwards. His ability to score goals, coupled with his physicality, made him a mainstay on Anaheim’s top lines for over a decade.

Over the years, Perry’s reputation grew. He won the 2007 Stanley Cup with the Ducks, claimed the Hart Trophy as the NHL’s MVP in 2011, and became known for his gritty, in-your-face style of play. His ability to score in a variety of ways, whether through his powerful shot, his presence in front of the net, or his hockey IQ, made him a highly valuable asset to any team.

Even as Perry aged, he continued to play with the same drive that had made him one of the league’s top talents in his prime. His time with the Dallas Stars, Montreal Canadiens, and Tampa Bay Lightning further solidified his status as a seasoned veteran capable of still contributing at a high level. Despite not being the same player he once was, Perry continued to find ways to help his team, whether by scoring timely goals or providing leadership in the locker room.

When Perry signed with the Edmonton Oilers ahead of the 2024-2025 season, there were some questions about whether he could still contribute. Would his speed be able to keep up in an increasingly fast-paced game? Would his goal-scoring touch have dulled with age? However, Perry has quickly silenced any doubts, proving that his experience, vision, and hockey sense are still as sharp as ever.

Still Scoring Goals: Perry’s Resurgence

Corey Perry’s ability to continue scoring goals at this stage of his career is nothing short of remarkable. As of the 2024-2025 season, Perry has consistently found the back of the net, adding his name to the scoresheet at key moments for the Oilers. While it’s not the 30-40 goal output of his younger years, Perry has continued to be a reliable presence on the ice, particularly in crucial situations.

What sets Perry apart from many players in his age group is his ability to adapt his game. As he’s gotten older, he has shifted his focus from pure speed and agility to maximizing his hockey IQ and positioning. Perry knows that he’s not going to outrun many players anymore, but what he can do is outthink them. His ability to find soft spots in the defense, to get to the front of the net, and to capitalize on scoring chances makes him a constant threat around the crease.

One of Perry’s trademarks has always been his tenacity around the net. He has a great ability to score dirty goals—those that come from battling in front of the crease, deflecting shots, or pouncing on rebounds. These types of goals often go unnoticed, but they are just as important as the flashy, highlight-reel goals. His willingness to get into these high-traffic areas has allowed him to remain productive even as his skating ability has slowed down slightly.

Despite being on the ice with faster and younger players, Perry’s ability to find space and make timely plays has enabled him to contribute at a high level. Whether it’s on the power play or even-strength situations, Perry has continued to produce. His presence on the ice draws attention, allowing his younger linemates to benefit from the space he creates and his ability to win key battles along the boards or in front of the net.

In fact, Perry’s numbers in the 2024-2025 season show that his goal-scoring touch is still very much alive. Even in a limited role with the Oilers, he’s maintained a pace of double-digit goals, which is no small feat for a player of his age. While not putting up the dominant numbers of his earlier years, Perry’s contributions are more significant than ever, providing crucial scoring depth to a team already filled with high-end talent like Connor McDavid, Leon Draisaitl, and Zach Hyman.

The Role of a Veteran Leader

Perry’s value to the Oilers isn’t just limited to his on-ice contributions. As one of the most experienced players in the league, Perry brings a wealth of knowledge, leadership, and mentorship to a locker room that contains some of the NHL’s brightest young stars.

For McDavid, Draisaitl, and the rest of the Oilers, having a player like Perry around is an invaluable asset. Perry has been through it all—winning a Stanley Cup, experiencing the highs and lows of a long career, and learning what it takes to succeed in the NHL. His presence in the locker room has helped to foster a winning culture in Edmonton, where he serves as an example of the work ethic, resilience, and mentality needed to succeed at the highest level.

Perry’s leadership extends far beyond just giving pep talks. His actions on and off the ice set an example for others to follow. The way he prepares for games, his commitment to maintaining peak physical condition, and his determination to keep playing at a high level serve as a blueprint for younger players looking to extend their careers.

In addition, Perry’s competitive spirit and fiery personality are assets to a team that often needs to find that extra gear in tough moments. While McDavid and Draisaitl are the Oilers’ on-ice leaders, Perry brings a different type of leadership—one built on hard work, toughness, and a never-say-die attitude. His fiery presence helps to inspire his teammates, especially when things get tough during playoff pushes or challenging moments in the regular season.

Moreover, Perry has a unique ability to get under the skin of opposing teams, something that can be invaluable in the playoffs. As one of the league’s most notorious agitators, Perry is adept at getting opponents off their game, taking advantage of their frustration, and creating openings for his teammates. His physicality, combined with his goal-scoring touch, makes him a player opponents don’t want to face.

Perry’s Impact on the Oilers’ Cup Aspirations

With the Oilers consistently in the conversation as Stanley Cup contenders, the addition of Corey Perry has proven to be a crucial piece of their puzzle. The Oilers have long had one of the most potent offenses in the league, but what has often eluded them is the depth necessary to go all the way. Perry’s ability to provide secondary scoring, experience, and leadership helps solidify the Oilers as a well-rounded team capable of competing for the ultimate prize.

Perry’s presence on the power play also enhances the team’s chances of success. While McDavid, Draisaitl, and others are more than capable of scoring with the man advantage, Perry adds a dimension that could prove critical in tight playoff games. His ability to tip pucks, screen the goaltender, and capitalize on rebound opportunities provides the Oilers with yet another weapon on special teams.

Beyond his scoring, Perry also brings a veteran’s understanding of what it takes to win in the postseason. The Oilers’ roster is full of young, dynamic talent, but many of these players are still learning how to win at the highest level. Perry’s experience in deep playoff runs and his Cup-winning pedigree give him insight into the mentality and adjustments required to navigate the grueling playoff series. His leadership in this regard cannot be understated.