Corey Perry has sent a firm message before joining Peter Laviolette and the Los Angeles Kings for another Stanley Cup chase.
At 41, Perry isn't treating the coming season like a farewell tour. The veteran winger believes his body can still handle the grind.
“I feel great,” Perry said. “I'm still having fun and still feel young. And he's a big part of that.”
The final line referred to his son, Griffin, whose enthusiasm has given Perry another source of energy during a demanding offseason.
Perry has heard the questions about his age, declining role and remaining value. His answer is to keep training, report ready and push for meaningful minutes.
He understands his place may be in the bottom six, around the crease and inside difficult playoff matchups. That hasn't weakened his motivation.
Corey Perry still chasing one more Cup
“This is what it's all about: sharing memories. I'm just glad that he loves it just as much as I do,” Perry said.
“It helps motivate you when you're doing all those offseason workouts, things like that. It keeps you going.
“It helps keep you hungry.”
That hunger has extended Perry's career across multiple contenders. He has accepted smaller roles while continuing to provide net-front pressure, edge and playoff experience.
Now the Kings are betting that Perry can bring those same elements to Laviolette's locker room during another serious push through the Western Conference.
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The message to his critics is straightforward. Perry isn't returning for ceremony, nostalgia or a comfortable final lap.
He wants another Stanley Cup, and he wants Griffin beside him when the biggest moments arrive. That personal goal has turned every workout into preparation for one more run.
Perry knows outsiders will keep questioning how much he has left. He also knows the only response that matters will come after puck drop.
Will Corey Perry win another Stanley Cup before retiring?
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