Major rumours surface that states Corey Perry has been traded to the Edmonton Oilers

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Skyler Walker
November 23, 2023 (2:11 PM)

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In the midst of the Edmonton Oilers' struggles, Oilers reporter Ryan Rishaug sheds light on General Manager Ken Holland's determination to make significant changes.

According to Rishaug, except for their first-round pick and the untouchable duo of 29 (Draisaitl) and 97 (McDavid), all assets and options are on the table. The Oilers are actively seeking a fix, exploring prospects, second-rounders, and roster players to address their current challenges. Rishaug suggests potential positive additions, emphasizing elements like cup experience, physicality, toughness, and positive locker room presence.

All eyes are on Ken Holland right now and rightfully so. My sense is, outside their first round pick, all assets and options (29,97 aside) are in play to try and find a fix. Prospects, 2nd rounders, roster players, all of it on the table.

Said Rishaug

Simultaneously, a cloud of mystery envelops Chicago Blackhawks forward Corey Perry, raising questions about his sudden absence from recent games and practices. Perry was unexpectedly a healthy scratch against the Columbus Blue Jackets, with Head Coach Luke Richardson citing it as an organizational decision. Perry's absence from Thursday's practice deepens the intrigue.

Also, Petr Mrazek, the Blackhawks starting goaltender was absent from morning skate with no explanation provided by management, and will not be starting their next game. The Oilers are clearly in need of a goaltender.

Richardson remained tight-lipped about the situation, stating:

''I know you have questions about Corey Perry not playing last night and attending practice today, but we're going to keep that internal in the organization right now. I'm not going to be able to answer any more questions on that.''

Oilers reportedly eyeing down a cup-champ

Any of these elements would be a positive add, said Oilers reporter Rishaug:

-Cup experience
-Physicality/Toughness
-Positive locker room presence/energy

Ironically, all 3 of those boxes are checked off by Corey Perry with ease.

Adding to the speculation, Blackhawks veteran Nick Foligno addressed the media, hinting at Perry's absence and potentially leaking a trade. Foligno's statement:

"We just know he's not with us. Haven't gotten any details. It's unfortunate. He's a big part of this; we will miss him, we've got a lot of young guys, so it's kind of a shock at first, but it's been a pro we talk about it, and this is an opportunity to do that. It's the outside noise that you have to push away."

This statement implies that the Blackhawks may be navigating through a significant trade involving Perry, who possesses valuable playoff experience, making him an ideal fit for the Edmonton Oilers.