In a move that has left Edmonton Oilers fans both stunned and disappointed, veteran forward Corey Perry has chosen to sign with the rival Los Angeles Kings, turning down another potential run for the Stanley Cup in Alberta. As free agency opened, Perry inked a lucrative one-year deal with the Kings, a contract that the Oilers simply weren’t prepared to match.

After two memorable trips to the Cup Finals with Edmonton, Perry’s decision to leave has sparked intense debate and speculation about what truly drove the respected winger to head south.

While Perry expressed his deep appreciation for the Oilers organization and its passionate fanbase, he made it clear that sometimes, business realities and personal relationships play just as big a role as loyalty. Now, as he prepares to don the black and silver of the Kings, Oilers supporters are left reflecting on his impact in Edmonton and wondering what the future holds for both sides. Perry’s departure marks the end of an era—and the start of a new chapter in one of hockey’s most heated rivalries.

Photo credit: Imagn Images

Corey Perry surprised Oilers fans when the veteran forward decided to join the rival LA Kings in free agency, instead of staying in Edmonton for another chance at the Cup.

On the opening day of free agency, Perry signed a 1 year contract with Los Angeles for a whopping $4M including salary bonuses – a deal Edmonton just wasn’t willing to hand out.

Corey Perry addresses reason for leaving Edmonton Oilers for Los Angeles Kings

Perry spoke to the media yesterday after his contract was made official, and was asked point-blank why he left Edmonton. Perry admitted that he

Edmonton’s always going to have a soft spot in my heart. Me going there, and them bringing me in, going to two Cup Finals and going through it all with those guys, but not getting the job done.

It’s memorable. Those fans are so passionate, especially in playoff time. It’s a tremendous building and one of the best to play in.

But when we kind of had a feeling it wasn’t going to go the way we kind of planned, those things happen. You move on to something else, and you get ready for something else. When Kenny called, and having that relationship, it definitely helps.

– Corey Perry

By earlier reports from insider Bob Stauffer, Corey Perry was seeking a contract of $2M with the Edmonton Oilers. Even that would’ve been a significant discount from the $4M max contract he signed.

Judging Perry’s comments, it sounds like the Oilers just weren’t interested in bringing Perry back at his requested price tag. It’s a shame he had to demand such a raise, because if he truly wanted to stay in Edmonton, he would’ve needed a discount.

Having made over $100M in his career, there was some hope Perry would take a $1M deal again.

Ultimately, with a priority to reshape the forward group to get younger, it’s the right call not to overpay Perry at $2M, let alone 4.

Signing Andrew Mangiapane for a similar price may prove to be a much more effective use of the cap for Edmonton.

The pesty veteran winger came to Edmonton as a bitter rival, and will leave a respected leader to Oilers fans. It’s unfortunate that other teams were lining up to overpay him, and he chose those opportunities over another shot at winning in Edmonton.