This summer, Jason Newland and I will continue our series looking at potential free agent targets who could be available on July 1.
Target: Corey Perry – RW – 20 Years Experience
At 40 years old, Corey Perry has played a ton of hockey. Over the past few seasons, he’s been chasing a second Stanley Cup ring, but every team he’s joined has ultimately come up short.
Now, as a member of the Edmonton Oilers, he has perhaps his best shot at winning another Cup. If he pulls it off, there’s a good chance he decides to retire on top. But if the Oilers fall short, Perry may look to sign a one-year, league-minimum deal with a contender to take one last run at it before calling it a career.
Stats
This season with the Oilers, Perry played in 81 games and recorded 19 goals and 11 assists for 30 points. That’s strong production for a 40-year-old. Over his career, he has suited up for 1,392 games and tallied 448 goals and 487 assists for 935 points.
His best season came in 2010-11 with the Anaheim Ducks when he posted 98 points in 82 games — including his only 50-goal season.
Previous Salary
Over his 20-year career, Perry has earned roughly $104 million. He’s currently on a one-year, $1.4 million deal with the Oilers. Contract projections suggest he would likely sign for around $1 million on a one-year deal if he decides to return for another season.
Realistic Chances of a Signing: Cold
If Perry hits the open market, there’s almost no chance he ends up in Columbus. That’s not a knock on the Blue Jackets — it’s more about organizational direction.
General manager Don Waddell likely isn’t targeting a 40-year-old forward who would play 10 minutes a night. The team would rather reward a younger player with NHL minutes, especially one who could be part of the long-term future. Columbus is aiming to push for a playoff spot next season, and they can do that without giving a roster spot to an aging veteran at the tail end of his career.
