Oilers' Perry not planning to retire after Stanley Cup Final

Edmonton Oilers forward Corey Perry isn't considering retirement and intends to suit up for a 21st NHL season in 2025-26, he told reporters Tuesday, including The Athletic's Chris Johnston.

He's scheduled to become an unrestricted free agent July 1.

Perry is set to take part in the Stanley Cup Final for the fifth time in six seasons and is seeking his second championship after winning with the Anaheim Ducks in 2007.

The 40-year-old has signed a handful of short-term contracts with different contenders in recent years, falling short of a title with the Dallas Stars in 2020, the Montreal Canadiens in 2021, the Tampa Bay Lightning in 2022, and the Oilers in 2024.

He joined the Oilers during the 2023-24 campaign after his contract with the Chicago Blackhawks was terminated for unacceptable conduct.

Perry re-upped with Edmonton on a one-year, $1.15-million contract and has proven to be highly valuable during the team's second consecutive Western Conference title run. He contributed 19 goals in 81 games this season and has added seven tallies in the playoffs.

He's the NHL's active leader with 231 career postseason games, notching 137 points in those contests. Perry is likely headed to the Hockey Hall of Fame once his career comes to an end. Along with 448 goals and 935 career points, Perry is a Triple Gold Club member and has an MVP and "Rocket" Richard Trophy on his resume.