This season, the new man in northern Alberta is prepared to seize his second chance.
After being signed by the Edmonton Oilers for a one-year contract on Monday, Corey Perry is looking to put a turbulent story to rest.
After practice on Monday, the former Stanley Cup winner addressed the media for the first time, appearing revitalized mere months after the Chicago Blackhawks canceled his contract due to an alleged alcohol-related incident.
Perry claimed that after his contract was cancelled, he was committed to improving himself.
“During the previous two months,” Perry said to the press. “I’ve had a genuine opportunity to think things through, seek support, accept full responsibility for what transpired in Chicago, and work toward improving myself.
I must express my gratitude to my friends, family, and counselors for their unwavering support. With the assistance I’ve received, I believe there has been a significant difference between where I was two months ago and where I am now.
Over the past month, Perry has made it clear that he has been working on his mental health. Additionally, he made it plain that anyone who believes they need assistance should obtain it.
In terms of hockey, the former Dallas Star is prepared to sign with the NHL’s hottest franchise.
“The Oilers organization is going through an exciting period, and the town and its fan base are both very passionate.” Looking around the room, you can see that Darnell, Leon, Connor, and a long list of other excellent players are there.
General manager and president of hockey operations Ken Holland acknowledged that this was a move to make the squad better for the playoffs.
Holland stated, “He brings in a winning pedigree.” “I believe he’s the kind of player that every team should have on it.”
Prior to signing the 38-year-old, Holland said that he had conversations with the CEO of hockey operations, Jeff Jackson, Blackhawks general manager Kyle Davidson, Oilers coach Kris Knoblauch, and NHL Deputy Commissioner Bill Daly.
In the end, after speaking with Corey, I learned about the struggles he has faced over the past two months in his quest to improve himself. We felt this was an opportunity to acquire a player who could improve us both on and off the ice because of his hockey skills, what he offers to a hockey club, his winning history, and the work he’s been doing to develop himself in the previous few months.
The former general manager of the Red Wings stated that Perry should start for the squad against the Nashville Predators on Saturday afternoon.
Perry, wearing No. 90, skated with the Oilers for the first time on Monday. The blue shirt he was donning was one the squad usually saves for its bottom six players.
