Breaking News: Corey Perry Officially Announces His Retirement From Professional Hockey at Age 40, Concluding a Storied NHL Career Spanning Over Two Decades With Iconic Moments

 NHL veteran Corey Perry has officially announced his retirement from professional hockey at the age of 40. His decision brings to an end one of the most memorable and resilient careers in recent hockey history — a journey that began in 2003 and spanned more than 20 years across multiple teams, filled with iconic moments, championship triumphs, Olympic glory, and a lasting impact on the game.

Perry leaves the sport with a legacy defined by intensity, durability, and a unique ability to rise in high-stakes situations — a true playoff performer, locker room leader, and competitor in every sense.

From Peterborough to Anaheim: The Rise of a Star

Born in Peterborough, Ontario, Corey Perry made an early name for himself with the London Knights in the Ontario Hockey League. A first-round pick (28th overall) by the Anaheim Ducks in the 2003 NHL Draft, Perry entered the league with a combination of scoring touch and grit that would define his playing style for decades.

He made his NHL debut in the 2005-06 season, quickly becoming a reliable contributor. By the following year, Perry was an integral part of a young, talented Ducks team that surged to a Stanley Cup victory in 2007. It was the first major milestone in what would become a decorated and enduring career.

The MVP Years: Elite Production and Hart Trophy Recognition

Between 2008 and 2015, Perry emerged as one of the league’s most dangerous right wingers. His breakout season came in 2010-11, when he scored 50 goals and 98 points to lead the league in goal scoring and claim the Rocket Richard Trophy. That same season, Perry won the Hart Memorial Trophy as the NHL’s most valuable player.

During this era, Perry was known for his ability to score in all situations: even-strength, power play, and especially in clutch moments. He regularly posted 30+ goal seasons and was named to multiple All-Star Games. His partnership with Ryan Getzlaf formed the backbone of Anaheim’s offensive threat for over a decade.

International Dominance: Olympic Gold and Team Canada Glory

Perry’s excellence wasn’t confined to the NHL. He was a key part of Team Canada’s gold medal-winning rosters in both the 2010 Vancouver and 2014 Sochi Olympic Games. He added a World Championship gold in 2016, becoming one of the few players in history to earn membership in the Triple Gold Club — players who have won a Stanley Cup, an Olympic gold medal, and a World Championship.

His versatility and work ethic made him a perfect fit for international play, where Canada’s teams often relied on experienced leaders to anchor their roster. Perry wore the “C” for Canada at the 2016 World Championship, a testament to his leadership and international pedigree.

Post-Anaheim Journeyman Era: Redemption and Resilience

After 14 seasons with the Ducks, Perry was bought out in 2019, due to declining production and cap considerations. At that point, many assumed his best days were behind him. But Perry wasn’t finished — not even close.

He signed one-year contracts with a string of contenders, and in doing so, added to his legend:

• Dallas Stars (2019–2020): Reached the Stanley Cup Final

• Montreal Canadiens (2020–2021): Reached the Stanley Cup Final

• Tampa Bay Lightning (2021–2023): Reached the Stanley Cup Final again

• Chicago Blackhawks and Edmonton Oilers (2023–2025): Ended his career with a deep run alongside Connor McDavid and the Oilers, appearing in two more Finals

Though he fell short of another Cup, Perry’s ability to step up in the playoffs and act as a glue guy for locker rooms became a defining feature of his late-career resurgence.

Final Seasons with Edmonton: Veteran Fire and a Fitting Farewell

Perry’s final seasons were with the Edmonton Oilers, where he played a pivotal role in back-to-back Stanley Cup Final runs in 2024 and 2025. Though the Oilers ultimately fell short, Perry’s presence — both on the ice and in the dressing room — was widely praised.

He contributed key goals in the playoffs and offered critical leadership for Edmonton’s young core. His ability to agitate, defend, and energize never faded, even as he entered his 40s.

Fans came to respect Perry’s resilience. Despite his age and changing roles, he never lost his competitive fire. In many ways, these final years cemented his status as one of the most determined players of his era.

By the Numbers: A Career of Excellence

Over his 20+ years in the NHL, Corey Perry compiled an impressive statistical record:

• Games Played: 1,392 regular season, 231 playoff games

• Goals: 448 regular season, 61 playoff goals

• Assists: 487 regular season, 76 playoff assists

• Points: 935 regular season, 137 playoff points

• Stanley Cups: 1 (2007)

• Olympic Gold Medals: 2 (2010, 2014)

• World Championship Gold: 1 (2016)

• NHL MVP: 2011

• Rocket Richard Trophy: 2011

He is one of only a handful of players to win both individual and team accolades at every level of the sport.

Legacy: The Villain You Needed on Your Side

Throughout his career, Perry was known as much for his antagonistic style as for his skill. Dubbed a “pest” by opponents and fans alike, he was often the player you loved to hate — unless he was on your team.

He wasn’t just annoying; he was effective. Perry’s style disrupted opposing defenses, threw goaltenders off their rhythm, and often opened up space for his teammates. Behind the net, along the boards, in front of the crease — he did the dirty work few stars were willing to do.

But Perry was also deeply respected by those who shared the ice with him. A consummate teammate, a fierce competitor, and a player who showed up in the biggest games, he earned his place among the game’s most enduring figures.

Tributes Pour In

Since the announcement of his retirement, tributes have flooded social media from players, coaches, and fans. Former teammates praised his tenacity and leadership. Opponents acknowledged his toughness and how difficult he was to play against. Coaches lauded his intelligence and will to win.

Connor McDavid called him “a true warrior of the game.” Anaheim honored him as “one of the greatest Ducks of all time.” Hockey Canada thanked him for his contributions to the national program. Even fans who once booed him offered respect, recognizing the incredible career he carved out with persistence and passion.

What’s Next for Perry?

While Perry hasn’t made any announcements about his post-retirement plans, many believe he’ll remain close to the game. Coaching, front-office roles, or broadcasting could be in his future. His hockey IQ, experience, and leadership make him a natural fit for mentorship roles.

It’s also likely that Perry will remain involved with the Ducks in some ceremonial or alumni capacity. A jersey retirement in Anaheim may one day be on the horizon.

A Career Worth Celebrating

As Corey Perry skates away from professional hockey for the final time, he does so with few regrets and an incredible legacy. From the peaks of MVP seasons and Olympic gold to the valleys of injury and being bought out, he never stopped competing. Never stopped believing. Never stopped contributing.

His career wasn’t just long — it was meaningful, filled with unforgettable moments, fierce rivalries, loyal teammates, and a relentless pursuit of greatness. Whether loved or loathed, Corey Perry will be remembered as one of the defining players of his generation.