Edmonton Oilers make final decision on Corey Perry before free agency

Reports surfaced last week that Perry was seeking a contract salary up to $2.5M. With the Oilers cap crunch this offseason and a desire to get younger, paying the veteran just doesn't fit.

According to a new update from NHL insider Pierre LeBrun this morning, Perry is still hoping to return to Edmonton - but the framework of a deal is very far away, and he'll likely hit the market.

Perry was coming off a $1.15M contract for the Oilers, and provided great value up and down the lineup. The Oilers would love to have Perry back, but only at a similar contract number - he'd have to take a significant discount for another chance to win in Edmonton.

However, other NHL teams with more cap space will be lining up to pay Perry for his scoring ability and veteran leadership. Any team would be willing to take him on, from contenders looking for playoff experience to rebuilders looking for a mentor.

Perry has been a phenomenal fit for the Oilers as a player with skill who can thrive on the first or fourth line. It was impressive to see the 40 year old put up 19 regular season goals, then add 10 playoff goals in 22 games.

It'll be tough to see him leave, but the Oilers simply can't match the offers waiting for him from other teams. It's unfortunate he's unwilling to take a discount to take care of unfinished business in Edmonton, but the Oilers will move on, and get younger in the process.