The Edmonton Oilers are facing a difficult moment after losing the last two Stanley Cup Finals. The team, led by star Connor McDavid, has now lost a key veteran presence who will continue his long career with the Los Angeles Kings following a free agency move.
McDavid, the captain and iconic face of Edmonton, is entering the final year of his contract without having won a Stanley Cup, the biggest missing piece in his illustrious career. After coming up short in the decisive game in each of the past two seasons, the Oilers’ star now watches as a key veteran teammate says goodbye.
What McDavid’s future will look like in a year remains a mystery, as his contract with the Oilers is set to expire on July 1, 2026. However, for now, Edmonton has to deal with the reality that an important veteran presence will no longer be part of the franchise’s roster.
Which Oilers player left for the Kings?
The Kings have signed veteran forward Corey Perry, who arrives from the Oilers, according to NHL insider Elliotte Friedman on his X account (formerly Twitter). The agreement between the experienced forward and Los Angeles is a one-year deal with a base salary plus bonuses totaling around $3.5 million.
Corey Perry #90 of the Edmonton Oilers looks on against the Chicago Blackhawks during the first period at the United Center on January 11, 2025.
At 40 years old, Perry not only brings experience but also impressive production, having recorded 19 goals and 11 assists in 81 regular-season games, along with an outstanding mark of 10 goals in 22 playoff games, his best postseason performance since 2015.
see also
Oilers secure key teammate for Connor McDavid ahead of 2025-26 NHL season
Perry’s extensive Stanley Cup Final experience
Perry carries with him a valuable track record. The veteran right wing has played in six Stanley Cup Finals throughout his career, including five over the past five years. In addition to the last two Finals with the Oilers, Perry reached the 2020 Stanley Cup Final with the Dallas Stars, followed by appearances with the Montreal Canadiens in 2021 and the Tampa Bay Lightning in 2022.
