Corey Perry Signs with Oilers Following Blackhawks' Exit

David Banks-USA TODAY Sports

Corey Perry Signs with Oilers Following Blackhawks' Exit

Originally posted on On Tap Sports Net | By Tony Marchese | Last updated Jan 21, 2024 9:22 PM ET

In a bold move reflective of their current form, the Edmonton Oilers have reportedly signed veteran forward Corey Perry. The 38-year-old was released from the Chicago Blackhawks in late November due to a team conduct violation. He'll now bring his experience to a blazing-hot Oilers team that's riding a historic 13-game winning streak.

According to TSN's Ryan Rishaug, Perry has agreed to a one-year contract, with an official announcement from the Oilers anticipated as early as Monday.

Perry and the Oilers have agreed to a deal, announcement likely coming Monday if not sooner.
— Ryan Rishaug (@TSNRyanRishaug) January 21, 2024

Perry's departure from the Blackhawks was marked by controversy. A severing of ties was prompted by actions deemed to be in violation of professional conduct by the Blackhawks organization. Perry acknowledged his missteps, issuing an apology for behavior he openly recognized as "inappropriate and wrong."

Despite the fallout with Chicago, Perry's stats this season — four goals and five assists in 16 games — speak of a player still possessing enough skill to influence an NHL game. Adding Perry to the roster will only bolster Edmonton's bottom-six forward group. The Oilers are 21-3 in their last 24 games and poised to become an even more formidable presence in the Western Conference.

Perry, a 28th overall pick by the Anaheim Ducks in 2003, now has the opportunity to extend a career that was in question just a few months ago.

This article first appeared on On Tap Sports Net and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads: