Insider reveals one aspect about Edmonton that may stop Corey Perry from signing with Oilers

Since reports surfaced a week ago that Corey Perry had been cleared by Gary Bettman to sign with any team as a free agent and return to hockey, the Edmonton Oilers have been one of the teams considered as the favourites to land him. Now, NHL insider Elliotte Friedman revealed there may be one reason holding Perry back from signing in Edmonton.

While on the the Jeff Marek Show earlier today, Friedman said that Perry may consider signing in a �quieter' hockey market. After the off-ice issues in Chicago, Friedman speculated that Perry may want to try to avoid the noise of the Canadian hockey media.

If that's the case, Perry would likely be more interested in a playoff-bound southern United States team, like the Florida Panthers who are also reported to be interested in signing the veteran forward. Friedman still mentioned the Oilers as a leading candidate for Perry, despite this new report.

It's disappointing to hear Perry may avoid Canada altogether and potentially sacrifice signing with the team that he fits best with and is a legitimate Cup Contender. Still, with the history of Evander Kane coming to Edmonton after a load of personal issues in San Jose, there's a precedent of success with joining the Oilers in this situation.

Now 38 years old, Corey Perry is an extremely effective veteran player. He can bring depth scoring and skill, and also plays a dirty and physical game primed for playoff hockey. In 16 games with the lowly Blackhawks this season, Perry impressed with 4 goals and 9 points. It's very likely that he would be rejuvenated in his return to the NHL and on a much better team like the Edmonton Oilers.

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