The Edmonton Oilers recently lost forwards Corey Perry and Connor Brown during free agency, with Perry signing a one-year, $3.5 million contract with the Los Angeles Kings, and Brown committing to a four-year, $12 million deal with the New Jersey Devils. These moves mark significant changes to the Oilers lineup as they prepare for the upcoming <a href="https://www.buzzineintl.com/category/hockey/nhl/”>NHL season. Despite the departures, Oilers general manager Stan Bowman remains optimistic about the team’s future.
Expert Perspective on the Impact of Losing Key Players
NHL analyst Gene Principe shared his assessment of the Oilers’ situation following these free agency losses. He highlighted the depth of leadership and experience that both Perry and Brown brought to the team, which will be missed on and off the ice. Principe emphasized Perry’s history of success, noting that the veteran forward has appeared in five or six Stanley Cup finals during his career.
“Lots of leadership, lots of gamesmanship, lots of tranquility, lots of experience — all the things those two guys have accumulated,” Principe said on Sportsnet 590 The Fan of what Edmonton will miss. “I mean, Corey is incredible. What is it — five or six Cup finals he’s been in?” —Gene Principe, NHL Analyst
Principe believes Perry’s departure is particularly painful because it was for just one season, signaling a loss that potentially feels like more than a single year. He described Perry as a “gunslinger” who consistently creates scoring opportunities, making him a vital asset on the team.
“You think, ‘Oh, maybe we could have gotten him for one year.’ But really, with the incentives, one year is kind of like two for Corey… But this guy’s a gunslinger. He goes in and shoots down anything that he needs to find success. So that is a big loss,” Principe noted. —Gene Principe, NHL Analyst
Regarding Connor Brown’s departure, Principe viewed his four-year contract in New Jersey as somewhat easier for the Oilers to accept. The length of Brown’s deal means the team likely anticipated losing him for the foreseeable future and planned accordingly.
Stan Bowman’s Response to the Roster Changes
Although losing Perry and Brown represents a blow to the Oilers’ depth, Principe senses no panic from Stan Bowman. The general manager’s proactive approach was demonstrated by signing forward Andrew Mangiapane to a two-year, $7.2 million contract, a move intended to bolster the team’s offensive capabilities.
“I think the one thing about Stan Bowman — he’s not fretting about what they’ve lost,” Principe remarked. —Gene Principe, NHL Analyst
Principe suggests that, despite losing valuable role players, the Oilers’ core remains strong. These changes are unlikely to prevent Edmonton from pursuing its championship goals in the coming season.
Connor Brown Shares His Thoughts on Leaving Edmonton
Connor Brown reflected on his tenure with the Oilers, expressing mixed emotions about his exit. He described the experience as deeply impactful and acknowledged the difficulty of moving on after giving his all on the ice.
“It’s a bit of a heavy heart. We left it all on the line. It’s not an easy thing to turn the page there,” Brown said. —Connor Brown, Former Edmonton Oilers Forward
Looking ahead, Brown is enthusiastic about his new opportunity with the New Jersey Devils, where he sees a roster with strong potential for success.
“I see (the Devils) as a team with a lot of really good players on good contracts. I see the potential to go on some really good runs there.” —Connor Brown, New Jersey Devils Forward
Brown’s recent postseason performance was notable, as he contributed five goals and nine points over 20 games, underscoring his ability to make an impact in critical moments.
Outlook for the Oilers Following Free Agency Moves
The departures of Corey Perry and Connor Brown create challenges for the Edmonton Oilers, specifically in leadership and offensive depth. However, Stan Bowman’s strategic acquisition of Andrew Mangiapane signals confidence in maintaining team momentum. With experienced players gone but new talent added, the Oilers aim to sustain their competitive edge and remain contenders for the Stanley Cup in the 2024 season and beyond.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. What did Corey Perry apologize for?
A. Corey Perry, who used to play for the Blackhawks, said sorry on Thursday for his actions that got him released from the team. He admitted his behavior was not right and has begun talking to mental health and substance abuse experts about his alcohol problems.
Q. Why did Corey Perry get released?
A. In late November, Chicago ended its relationship with Perry, citing violations of his player contract and team policies. These policies aim to ensure a professional and safe work environment. No specifics about the incident were shared by Perry or the general manager, Kyle Davidson.
Q. Why did Corey Perry get a penalty?
A. Corey Perry was hit a few times by Teddy Blueger but didn’t fight back. Because of this, Blueger got a roughing penalty, removing the Canucks’ power play.
Q. How many times has Corey Perry lost?
A. In 2024 and 2025, Perry went back to the Finals two more times with the Oilers, but they were defeated both years. He made history as the first NHL player to reach the Finals with five different teams. Additionally, he became the only player to lose four Finals with four separate teams.