Corey Perry shuts down retirement rumors and confirms NHL return as Stanley Cup Final approaches
Corey Perry, one of the NHL's most seasoned veterans, isn't hanging up his skates just yet. As the Edmonton Oilers gear up for the Stanley Cup Final, the 40-year-old winger has silenced retirement rumors with a bold announcement.
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Despite nearing free agency, Perry confirmed he plans to return for a 21st season, proving he still has plenty left to give.
Corey Perry shuts down retirement rumors as Stanley Cup Final looms
As the Edmonton Oilers gear up for their first Stanley Cup Final appearance since 1990, veteran forward Corey Perry is already thinking ahead to what's next—and no, it's not retirement.
Now 40 years old and in his 20th NHL season, Perry continues to defy expectations. He's proven this postseason that he still brings tremendous value to a contending team.
Despite being one of the league's oldest active players, Perry confirmed to reporters that he has 'no intention of retiring just yet,' according to Chris Johnston of The Athletic. That clears up any retirement speculation—and adds intrigue to his pending free agency.
Veteran forward wants more as he eyes free agency after playoff run
Perry's one-year deal with Edmonton will expire at the end of the 2024–25 season, setting him up to enter the unrestricted free agent market once again.
While it's unclear if the Oilers will offer a new deal, there's no question Perry has shown he still has gas left in the tank.
During the regular season, Perry skated in 81 games, notching 30 points—including 11 goals—while logging nearly 12 minutes of ice time per game. But it's his playoff production that's turned heads: seven goals and 10 points in 16 postseason contests, serving as a clutch performer in the team's deep run.
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Though he's no longer the nearly point-per-game player he once was during his peak with the Anaheim Ducks, Perry's leadership and timely scoring are the kind of assets every playoff contender craves.
Perry isn't rushing his next move just yet. He remains focused on helping Edmonton capture its first Stanley Cup since 1990—a milestone that would give him his second career title, the first coming with Anaheim in 2007.
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Regardless of where he lands next, Perry's mindset is clear: he's not done. And for teams in need of a proven playoff presence with a wealth of experience, his return for a 21st NHL season will make him a valuable target once free agency opens.
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