Corey Perry Joins the Edmonton Oilers Amidst a Winning Streak
In an unexpected turn of events, the Edmonton Oilers have bolstered their roster by signing veteran forward Corey Perry. The former Stanley Cup champion and two-time Olympic gold medalist inked a deal for $775,000, supplemented with performance bonuses, as the team looks to extend its impressive 13-game winning streak and strengthen its bid for their first championship since 1990.
Perry's Potential Debut and Contract Details
Perry is set to potentially make his debut with the Oilers in their upcoming game against Nashville on Saturday. This move comes after Perry's previous contract with the Chicago Blackhawks was terminated under undisclosed circumstances. Despite the lack of details surrounding his exit from Chicago, Perry has been open about seeking help for alcohol abuse following an apology issued in December.
The Oilers are waiting to finalize Perry's contract until Adam Erne's waiver situation is resolved. Meanwhile, Perry faces a deadline next week to decide whether to file a grievance over his Blackhawks contract termination.
A Second Chance
NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman met with Perry, following which it was confirmed that the player was not banned from signing with other teams. This meeting paved the way for Perry's second chance in the NHL. Oilers General Manager Ken Holland reportedly spoke with Blackhawks GM Kyle Davidson prior to bringing Perry into the fold, ensuring due diligence was exercised given Perry's recent challenges.
Perry himself has expressed gratitude and reflection on his journey back to the ice, "I really had a chance to reflect and get the help and take full responsibility for what happened in Chicago and try to better myself," he said. His commitment to improvement was echoed in his remarks about the progress he has made, "From where I was two months ago to where I am today, it’s been a world of difference — the help I’ve gotten and from where I’ve come from."
Oilers' Vision and Perry's Fit
The addition of Perry to the Oilers' lineup is seen as a strategic move by management. His style of play is described as ideal for playoff hockey—tough, gritty, and relentless on the puck. "We’re adding a player that, in my opinion, plays playoff hockey: greasy, gritty, dirty, heavy on the puck down low," an Oilers spokesperson commented.
Holland's vision for the team is clear as they aim to maintain their momentum and prepare for the postseason. "This team’s going in the right direction and not just because they’ve won 13 games in a row, but you can see where they’re going and their mindset and the vision they have that they want to win a Stanley Cup here," Perry remarked, aligning his personal aspirations with those of the organization.
However, the team remains realistic about the challenges ahead. Acknowledging the competitive nature of the league, a spokesperson from the team stated, "We’re on a great run, but we’re going to lose some games here. It’s the National Hockey League and there’s 40 games to go. Today I think we got our team better, deeper, bigger, stronger, more competitive."
Community and Family Influence
Perry's decision to join the Oilers was also influenced by family ties to the team's fan base. "When you have a 6-year-old kid and you have Connor McDavid on the team, you kind of follow the Edmonton Oilers," Perry shared, highlighting the personal connection that helped steer his decision towards Edmonton.
The Oilers' community and fans are eagerly anticipating Perry's impact on the ice as the team gears up for the remainder of the season and the playoffs. With the trade deadline approaching on March 8, the Oilers are clearly committed to making this season one to remember, and the addition of Corey Perry could be a crucial piece in their quest for the Cup.