Corey Perry Gets Brutally Honest About His Decision to Leave Edmonton Oilers, Citing Role, Timing, and Emotional Toll Involved

In a revealing and refreshingly candid interview, veteran forward Corey Perry opened up about his unexpected decision to leave the Edmonton Oilers, offering fans a behind-the-scenes look at the complex emotions and circumstances that shaped his exit.

For a player known for his grit, leadership, and playoff pedigree, Perry’s departure left a noticeable void in the Oilers’ locker room—and raised questions about what really happened. Now, the former Hart Trophy winner is setting the record straight, addressing what went into his departure and what he’s learned from the experience.

“It wasn’t an easy decision. In fact, it was one of the hardest calls I’ve made in my career,” Perry said. “But when you’ve been around the league as long as I have, you learn that timing, role, and honesty with yourself matter more than anything.”

The Background: Perry’s Unusual Journey to Edmonton

Perry signed with the Edmonton Oilers in January of 2024, joining the team midseason following his controversial departure from the Chicago Blackhawks. The decision to bring him in was met with mixed reactions, but Oilers general manager Ken Holland described it as a low-risk move to add leadership and postseason experience to the roster.

And for a time, it worked.

Perry slotted into the Oilers’ bottom six and quickly earned respect in the locker room. His gritty play, net-front presence, and vocal leadership were assets during Edmonton’s playoff push. But as the 2024-25 offseason unfolded, speculation grew that Perry might not return—even though he still had gas in the tank and Edmonton had room on the depth chart.

Then came the announcement: Perry and the Oilers were parting ways. No extension. No farewell tour. Just a quiet, clean break.

Until now.

“I Needed to Be Real With Myself”

In speaking with The Athletic, Perry revealed that while the Oilers organization treated him well, he felt his role had reached a ceiling in Edmonton.

“I came into that team to help push them toward a Cup,” he said. “And I think I did what I could. But toward the end of the season and into the playoffs, I could feel my role shrinking.”

According to Perry, he began questioning whether staying with the Oilers meant accepting a diminished role—perhaps healthy scratches, perhaps spot duty on the fourth line. For a player who thrives on physicality and rhythm, that’s a tough pill to swallow.

“It’s not about ego,” he explained. “It’s about feeling like you can contribute. I didn’t want to be a guy just hanging around. I’ve never been that player.”

While he says the coaching staff was honest with him and handled the situation professionally, the writing was on the wall: younger players were stepping up, and Perry’s ice time was slipping.

“I looked around that locker room and saw so much talent—guys who are going to lead this team for years,” he said. “But I didn’t see where I fit anymore.”

Emotional Toll and the Weight of Experience

Perry, who turns 40 next year, acknowledged that part of the difficulty came from knowing that his time in the NHL is nearing its end. Walking away from a team like Edmonton—led by superstars Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl—meant potentially missing out on one more deep playoff run.

“That’s what made it so hard,” he admitted. “You don’t get many chances to play with a group like that. Those guys are special. But sometimes, the hardest decisions are the right ones.”

He added that he had several long conversations with his family, agent, and a few trusted teammates before making the final call. It wasn’t about money or legacy—it was about peace of mind.

“I wanted to leave on my terms,” Perry said. “Still feeling like myself, still knowing I gave everything I had.”

No Hard Feelings Toward the Oilers

One of the standout aspects of Perry’s interview was the absence of bitterness. He repeatedly praised the Oilers organization, calling it “one of the most passionate and professional teams” he’s been a part of in his career.

“I have nothing but respect for how they treated me,” he said. “From management to the coaching staff to the fans—Edmonton welcomed me when I needed a place, and I’ll never forget that.”

He also praised head coach Kris Knoblauch, crediting him for clear communication and an honest approach to lineups and rotations.

“Kris never made promises he couldn’t keep. He told me how he saw my role, and he stuck to that,” Perry said. “I appreciate that more than people know.”

Oilers’ Reaction to Perry’s Departure

While the Oilers haven’t made an official statement beyond a brief press release thanking Perry for his contributions, several teammates have gone public with messages of support.

“Corey was a warrior,” said Oilers captain Connor McDavid. “He brought a lot of edge to our group, and his playoff experience helped us mature. We’re going to miss him.”

Veteran defenseman Mattias Ekholm added, “He was one of those guys who kept things light when needed but also held guys accountable. A real pro.”

Perry’s impact, it seems, went beyond the stat sheet.

What’s Next for Corey Perry?

So, where does Perry go from here?

He didn’t rule out continuing his career—if the right opportunity arises.

“I’m not done yet,” he said. “If there’s a team out there that thinks I can help them, I’m ready. But I’m not going to force it.”

Perry also acknowledged that retirement is on the horizon and that he’s begun exploring post-hockey options, including potential media roles or player development positions.

“I love the game. Whether I’m on the ice or behind the bench or in front of a camera, I’ll always be part of it,” he said.

Legacy Beyond Edmonton

While Perry’s stint in Edmonton was short, it may be one of the more misunderstood chapters of his career. He wasn’t there to score 30 goals. He wasn’t there to be the star. He was there to be a glue guy—to offer perspective, toughness, and playoff wisdom.

And by all accounts, he delivered.

“I knew my role going in,” Perry said. “It was never about points. It was about moments. I’ll always be proud of that.”

His career, which already includes a Stanley Cup, an Olympic gold medal, a Hart Trophy, and over 1,200 NHL games, needs no defending. Still, Perry made it clear he wanted his time in Edmonton remembered for the right reasons.

“It wasn’t perfect, and it wasn’t forever,” he said. “But it was real. And that’s enough for me.”

In an age where athletes often hide behind PR-trained answers and vague statements, Corey Perry’s honesty stands out. His decision to leave the Oilers wasn’t driven by drama or discontent—it was driven by self-awareness, respect for the game, and a desire to do what felt right.

For Edmonton fans, his departure is bittersweet. Perry gave the team a spark when it needed it, embraced a difficult role, and left the game better than he found it.

And for Perry, walking away on his own terms may be the biggest win of all.

“I’ll always be grateful to Edmonton,” he said one final time. “It was short—but it mattered.”