BREAKING NEWS: Corey Perry Officially Announces His Retirement From Professional Hockey at the age of 40, Concluding a storied NHL Career Spanning Over Two decades with iconic moments, Stanley Cup Glory, and a Resilient Late-Career Stint with the Edmonton Oilers. The Veteran Winger Leaves the ice for the Final Time as one of the Game’s Most… 

Corey Perry Officially Announces His Retirement From Professional Hockey at the age of 40, Concluding a storied NHL Career Spanning Over Two decades with iconic moments, Stanley Cup Glory, and a Resilient Late-Career Stint with the Edmonton Oilers. The Veteran Winger Leaves the ice for the Final Time as one of the Game’s Most…

After more than 20 seasons of hard-fought battles, unforgettable moments, and Stanley Cup glory, Corey Perry has officially announced his retirement from professional hockey at the age of 40. The veteran winger, affectionately known across the NHL as “The Worm” for his gritty, agitating style of play, walks away from the ice as one of the game’s most respected and polarizing figures.

Perry’s announcement came via a heartfelt statement released early Tuesday morning, thanking fans, teammates, coaches, and his family for their unwavering support throughout a career that began in 2003 and concluded with a resilient late-career stint with the Edmonton Oilers.

“It’s hard to put into words what this game has meant to me,” Perry wrote. “Hockey has given me everything—lifelong friendships, incredible memories, and the opportunity to represent teams and cities I’ll always hold close to my heart. It’s time now for a new chapter, but I leave the game with no regrets.”

From First-Round Pick to Stanley Cup Champion

Originally selected 28th overall by the Anaheim Ducks in the 2003 NHL Draft, Perry quickly emerged as one of the league’s most talented—and frustrating—offensive forces. Standing at 6’3” with a long reach and a knack for scoring in high-traffic areas, he played a key role in the Ducks’ 2007 Stanley Cup victory, putting up 15 points in 21 playoff games as a 21-year-old.

That Cup win would be the first of many high points in Perry’s storied career. He later captured the Maurice “Rocket” Richard Trophy in 2011 as the NHL’s leading goal scorer with 50 goals, a feat that also earned him the Hart Memorial Trophy as the league’s Most Valuable Player.

For nearly 15 years, Perry was the face of the Ducks franchise alongside longtime linemate Ryan Getzlaf. Together, the duo carried Anaheim to numerous playoff appearances, built a fierce rivalry with the Los Angeles Kings, and helped redefine what it meant to be a power forward in the modern era.

A Career of Reinvention

After being bought out by the Ducks in 2019, many expected Perry’s best days were behind him. But the veteran winger proved his doubters wrong time and time again, signing one-year deals with contenders like the Dallas Stars, Montreal Canadiens, and Tampa Bay Lightning.

Each time, Perry brought veteran leadership, playoff experience, and his trademark tenacity to the lineup. He reached the Stanley Cup Final three years in a row—from 2020 to 2022—with three different teams, though he came up short each time.

In 2023, Perry joined the Edmonton Oilers, providing depth scoring and mentorship to a roster led by superstars Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl. Though he wasn’t the player he once was, Perry embraced his role as a bottom-six forward and locker room leader. His impact on the young Oilers was evident, both on and off the ice, helping push the team deeper into the playoffs during his tenure.

A Legacy of Controversy and Competitiveness

Perry’s legacy in the NHL is complex. Loved by teammates and loathed by opponents, he earned a reputation as one of the league’s premier agitators—always toeing the line between fair play and controversy. But whether you cheered for him or booed him, no one could deny his competitive fire.

Over the course of 1,273 regular-season games, Perry recorded 421 goals and 466 assists for 887 points, along with 1,370 penalty minutes. He added 53 goals and 71 points in 196 career playoff appearances.

“He was the guy you hated to play against but loved to have on your team,” said former teammate Ryan Getzlaf. “Corey brought it every night—he never backed down from a challenge, and he always showed up when it mattered most.”

A Final Skate and a New Chapter

Though Perry leaves the ice for the final time, his connection to the game isn’t expected to end. Rumors have already circulated that he may pursue a front-office or coaching role in the coming years, potentially following in the footsteps of other retired veterans.

For now, however, Perry says he’s looking forward to spending time with his family and reflecting on a career that defied expectations, sparked debate, and ultimately earned respect across the hockey world.

“I’ll miss the game, of course,” he wrote in closing. “But I’m proud of what I accomplished, proud of every jersey I wore, and grateful for every single moment.”

Corey Perry leaves behind a legacy marked by skill, longevity, and fierce determination—an indelible figure in the modern NHL era who proved that success comes in many forms and sometimes, most memorably, with a little edge.