Breaking: NHL Veteran Corey Perry Admits Leaving Edmonton Oilers Was ‘Tough’ as He Joins Rival LA Kings
Former Edmonton Oilers winger Corey Perry has revealed that leaving the Alberta capital was a difficult decision, despite signing a one-year deal with rival Los Angeles Kings in free agency. Perry, who scored 29 goals in his first season with the Oilers, cited familiarity with Kings GM Ken Holland, who previously signed him while with Edmonton, as a factor in his decision. The 40-year-old veteran will face his former team three times next season, including a clash at Rogers Place on Jan. 10. Despite the rivalry, Perry expressed excitement for his new chapter in L.A.
Corey Perry Leaves Edmonton: New Chapter Begins with LA Kings
The Edmonton Oilers’ summer shopping list saw a significant mark off last week as 40-year-old veteran forward Corey Perry signed with the Los Angeles Kings. It’s a new chapter for Perry, who had an excellent season in Edmonton, tallying 19 regular-season goals and 10 playoff markers. However, a tight cap situation prevented the Oilers from retaining Perry’s services.
Perry signed a one-year deal with the Kings, carrying a $2 million cap hit and an additional $2 million in performance bonuses. Speaking with the TSN 1050 crew at a charity golf event, Perry opened up about leaving Edmonton:
“I do have to say, it was tough leaving Edmonton. We had a good thing set up there, family-wise, good group of guys, but it’s a new chapter and we’re looking forward to it.”
**Why LA Kings?**
The decision to join the Kings was influenced by a few factors. One key factor was familiarity with Kings GM, Rob Blake, who previously worked with Perry while with the Detroit Red Wings. GM Ken Holland, who signed Perry in Edmonton, also reached out and expressed interest.
Bittersweet Reunion?
Donning a Kings uniform is bittersweet for Perry, with the Ducks and Kings being archrivals during Perry’s 14-year tenure in Anaheim. Moreover, the Oilers eliminated the Kings in the first round of the playoffs for four straight seasons, with Perry on the Oilers’ roster the last two times.
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Did you know?
Perry and the Kings will face off against the Oilers three times next season. The first matchup is slated for Jan. 10, 2023, at Rogers Place in Edmonton.
What’s Next for Perry and the Kings?
The Kings are hoping Perry’s experience and offensive prowess can help revitalize their lineup. Perry’s career-high 50 goals and 100 points in the 2010-11 season speak volumes about his capabilities. With the right line chemistry, there’s no reason Perry can’t flourish in LA.
For Perry, the Kings’ lengthy playoff drought (since 2012) offers an exciting new challenge. His leadership and playoff experience could be invaluable in helping the Kings return to the postseason.
FAQs
- Q: Why did Corey Perry leave the Edmonton Oilers?
- A: A tight cap situation prevented the Oilers from retaining Perry’s services following his excellent season.
- Q: What are the Kings getting in Corey Perry?
- A: An experienced forward with a proven offensive record who can provide leadership and playoff prowess.
Pro Tip
Perry’s performance bonuses could significantly increase his value to the Kings, making this deal an even better fit if he regains his form.
In the end, Perry’s departure from Edmonton is a testament to the challenges teams face when cap space is tight. For Perry and the Kings, a new chapter begins, filled with promise and a touch of familiarity.