Apr 23, 2025; Los Angeles, California, USA; Edmonton Oilers right wing Corey Perry (90) warms up for game 2 of the 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs against the Los Angeles Kings at Crypto.com Arena. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images
Newly signed Los Angeles Kings forward Corey Perry sustained an injury during practice at the Toyota Sports Performance Center in El Segundo. According to a report from Mayor’s Manor, Perry was taken off the ice in a wheelchair for further medical evaluation following the incident. Details surrounding the injury remain sparse, including whether it was caused by contact or occurred during a routine play.
The incident raises concerns about Perry’s availability for the upcoming season. Given his recent signing of a one-year contract worth $2 million, the Kings would face a significant setback if he is unable to contribute due to injury. The 41-year-old veteran was anticipated to play a crucial role in the bottom six of the lineup, leveraging both his offensive skills and leadership experience.
Veteran Career and Recent Contributions
Perry’s career has included remarkable achievements, most notably a Stanley Cup title with the Anaheim Ducks in 2007, along with individual accolades such as the Hart Memorial Trophy and Maurice Richard Trophy in 2011. Over the past few seasons, Perry has maintained an impressive presence in the league, reaching the Stanley Cup Final five times in six attempts since joining the Dallas Stars before the 2019-20 season.
Despite being bought out by the Ducks earlier in his career, Perry has been a valuable contributor across multiple teams, including the Montreal Canadiens, Tampa Bay Lightning, Chicago Blackhawks, and Edmonton Oilers. Throughout his tenure, he has amassed 76 goals and 159 points in 404 games, averaging just under 13 minutes of ice time per game. His playoff experience is equally impressive, with 28 goals and 52 points recorded over 119 playoff games in the past six postseasons.
Depth and Potential Replacements
Fortunately for the Kings, the team has built sufficient depth on the wing, which may help mitigate the impact of Perry’s potential absence. While any replacement may not match Perry’s extensive experience, players like Akil Thomas, Andre Lee, Jeff Malott, and Taylor Ward could temporarily fill the role.
As the Kings prepare for the season, the status of Corey Perry will undoubtedly be a focal point for both the organization and its fans. The team will await further medical evaluations to determine the next steps regarding his recovery and potential return to the ice.
