“We’re Here for a Reason”: Corey Perry Reflects on Oilers’ Cup Final Loss With Perspective
“That’s hockey.”
Sometimes you win, sometimes you don’t — it’s part of the game.
Those were essentially the sentiments expressed by veteran Edmonton Oilers forward Corey Perry, a player with plenty of experience and insight into the highs and lows of playoff hockey.
Following the electric Game 1 victory that had Edmonton buzzing, the Oilers suffered a heartbreaking double-overtime loss to the Florida Panthers in Game 2, leveling the Stanley Cup Final series at one game apiece.
“We had some great moments out there,” Perry told reporters. “But they capitalized on a few chances where we fell short. In games like this, one error can become a turning point — and that’s what happened tonight.”
One standout moment came courtesy of Connor McDavid, who crafted a brilliant setup for Leon Draisaitl’s power-play goal, a play that left fans and analysts alike in awe.
However, the second period proved problematic for the Oilers — not for the first time — especially after holding a 3-2 lead following the first period. The Panthers responded with energy and executed their game plan effectively.
Perry acknowledged Florida’s tactics — a relentless, pressure-heavy approach that the Oilers themselves often use.
“We always talk about it — trap them in their zone, keep our lines rolling, and wear them down,” Perry said. “That’s our style too, and they’re executing it well. They’re a talented squad.”
Moments like these are where Perry’s composure stands out. Like captain Connor McDavid and head coach Kris Knoblauch, he maintains a steady, focused outlook. He understands what the Finals represent: a true battle between two elite teams, both unwilling to give an inch.
“They’re a tough team,” Perry repeated. “They’re going to test us all the way, and we’ll do the same. It’s going to be a grind.”
That’s the nature of top-tier hockey. No one expected an easy sweep — and if last year’s Final taught anything, it’s that unpredictability is the only certainty.
Wins and losses are part of the journey. The key is to reset, rest, and prepare for what comes next. With the series now tied and headed to Florida for Game 3, the Oilers will look to regroup.
Their season-long approach of staying focused one game at a time has carried them this far. And Corey Perry, with his playoff-tested mindset, knows they still have everything to play for.
“Yeah, it stings right now,” Perry admitted. “But we’re in the Final for a reason.”
