“It’s hard to walk away from Perry”: Edmonton Oilers consider re-signing Corey Perry for the 2025-2026 NHL season.

The Edmonton Oilers have a decision looming as they look ahead to the 2025-2026 NHL season: whether to re-sign veteran forward Corey Perry. Known for his grit, leadership, and playoff experience, Perry has been an important presence both on and off the ice for Edmonton since joining the team. As the Oilers continue to build around stars Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl, Perry’s potential return is sparking conversations among fans, analysts, and within the organization itself.

The phrase “It’s hard to walk away from Perry” captures the sentiment many hold about the 38-year-old winger. His contributions go beyond just statistics; he embodies the toughness and experience that can be invaluable during deep playoff runs. This article explores the reasons why Edmonton may choose to bring Perry back, the challenges involved, and what his re-signing could mean for the team’s future.

Corey Perry’s Role with the Edmonton Oilers

Corey Perry joined the Oilers in the 2022-2023 season, providing veteran depth and a much-needed physical presence. While Perry’s prime years are behind him, his impact has been felt in various facets of the game:

• Leadership: Perry’s experience winning a Stanley Cup with the Anaheim Ducks in 2007 and his tenure with multiple playoff teams make him a respected voice in the locker room.

• Physicality and Grit: Known for his aggressive style, Perry adds toughness that helps protect star players and energizes teammates.

• Situational Scoring: Although not the top scorer, Perry has contributed timely goals and has been effective on the power play and penalty kill.

• Mentorship: He serves as a mentor to younger players, especially forwards who look up to his work ethic and professionalism.

For a team like the Oilers, which has championship aspirations, the presence of a seasoned pro like Perry can be the difference in tight playoff series.

Why It’s Hard to Walk Away From Perry

There are several reasons why the Oilers might find it difficult to part ways with Perry:

1. Intangibles Beyond the Scoresheet

In the NHL, veteran presence often provides intangible benefits such as calmness under pressure, accountability, and a winning mindset. Perry has repeatedly demonstrated that he thrives in playoff situations and understands the grind required to succeed.

Coach and teammates have praised his work ethic, willingness to sacrifice, and ability to lead by example—qualities that do not always show up in traditional metrics.

2. Depth and Versatility

Perry’s ability to play multiple forward roles—whether on the wing or center, on special teams or in checking lines—offers roster flexibility. Depth is crucial in the playoffs, and Perry provides a reliable option that can step up when injuries or fatigue hit.

Depth veterans who can contribute in key moments often make the difference in a Stanley Cup run, and Perry fits that mold perfectly.

3. Community and Fan Connection

Beyond the ice, Perry has embraced the Edmonton community and built a positive rapport with fans. His gritty style and no-nonsense approach resonate with the Oilers’ blue-collar fanbase, which appreciates players who leave everything on the ice.

Keeping Perry also sends a message that the organization values loyalty and character, fostering a positive culture.

Challenges and Considerations

While re-signing Perry has clear benefits, the Oilers must also weigh potential challenges:

1. Age and Declining Production

At 38 years old, Perry is nearing the end of his career. His speed and stamina have declined, and while he remains effective in limited roles, he cannot be expected to carry heavy minutes or replace younger contributors.

Edmonton must consider if investing roster space and salary cap on Perry limits opportunities for developing prospects or signing younger players.

2. Salary Cap Implications

The NHL’s salary cap environment demands careful financial management. While Perry’s contract is unlikely to be prohibitively expensive, every dollar counts when trying to build a championship roster around McDavid and Draisaitl.

The Oilers must balance paying Perry against other needs such as goaltending, defense, or forward depth.

3. Emerging Young Players

The Oilers have several promising young forwards knocking on the door for NHL roles. These players represent the future and could benefit from increased playing time. Keeping Perry could limit their development opportunities.

Management will need to assess if Perry’s experience outweighs the potential impact of younger, more dynamic players.

What Perry’s Return Could Mean for the Oilers

If the Oilers decide to re-sign Corey Perry, the move could have several positive outcomes:

1. Enhanced Leadership in the Locker Room

Perry’s leadership would continue to be a stabilizing force. As Edmonton pursues a Stanley Cup, having a veteran who knows what it takes can help maintain focus and motivation during the highs and lows of a grueling NHL season.

2. Increased Playoff Resilience

Perry’s playoff experience and physicality can boost Edmonton’s toughness in the postseason. His ability to play through pain and battle in front of the net could provide critical moments of grit and determination.

3. Mentorship for Young Players

Younger forwards can benefit from Perry’s mentorship, learning the nuances of playoff hockey and professional conduct. This can accelerate their development and contribute to sustained success for the franchise.

4. Positive Fan Engagement

Retaining Perry keeps a fan favorite on the roster, helping maintain positive community relations and team identity.

What Could a Contract Look Like?

Given Perry’s age and role, any new contract is likely to be short-term and modest in terms of salary. It might include performance bonuses or be structured to provide roster flexibility.

A one-year deal with a cap hit in the range of $1 million to $1.5 million seems plausible, allowing the Oilers to retain his services without hampering other roster moves.

Perspectives from Coaches and Teammates

Head coach Jay Woodcroft has often spoken about the value of having veterans like Perry in the lineup. He appreciates Perry’s dedication to preparation and ability to elevate his game during critical moments.

Teammates like Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl have praised Perry’s physical presence and willingness to do the “dirty work,” acknowledging how that support helps them perform at their best.

Historical Comparisons

Veteran players extending their careers by transitioning into mentorship and depth roles is a common NHL theme. Players like Patrick Marleau, Joe Thornton, and Zdeno Chara have all embraced reduced roles while contributing invaluable leadership.

Perry’s potential re-signing fits this trend—valuing experience and character as key components of a successful team.

Fan and Media Reaction

Fans have expressed mixed but generally positive views on the idea of Perry returning. Many appreciate his commitment and grit, seeing him as an essential piece of the Oilers’ identity. Some suggest the team should focus on youth, but the majority agree that having Perry’s leadership is a net positive.

Media analysts highlight the balance the Oilers must strike between honoring veterans and investing in future talent.

Looking Ahead: What’s Next for the Oilers and Perry?

As the Oilers prepare for the 2025-2026 season, management will weigh their options carefully. Perry’s health, role expectations, and contract demands will be key factors in negotiations.

For Perry, the opportunity to chase another Stanley Cup with the Oilers is likely a strong motivator. His passion for the game and commitment to the team suggest he is open to continuing if the fit feels right.

Corey Perry’s potential return to the Edmonton Oilers in 2025-2026 encapsulates the blend of grit, leadership, and experience that teams covet during championship pursuits. While age and cap considerations present challenges, Perry’s intangibles and impact remain valuable.

“It’s hard to walk away from Perry” because players like him do more than score goals—they inspire, lead, and embody the spirit of competition. For the Oilers, re-signing Perry could provide that crucial edge as they seek to build a team capable of hoisting the Stanley Cup.

As the offseason unfolds, all eyes will be on Edmonton’s decisions, with Perry’s future a key storyline in the quest to turn potential into playoff success.