Corey Perry, currently with the Edmonton Oilers, remains a sought-after player even at the age of 40. With the Oilers in the Stanley Cup Finals, his performance continues to draw attention, leading to speculation about his future and potential destinations, including the Toronto Maple Leafs.

Perry's career has been marked by his abrasive playing style and goal-scoring ability. Drafted in 2003 by the Anaheim Ducks, he spent his first 14 years with the team, winning a Stanley Cup in 2007. He has also played for the Dallas Stars, Montreal Canadiens, Tampa Bay Lightning, and, most recently, the Edmonton Oilers. His knack for getting under his opponent's skin has earned him the nickname "The Worm," while his scoring touch led to the moniker "Scorey Perry."

The Toronto Maple Leafs have had multiple opportunities to acquire Perry. Back in January 2024, after his release from the Chicago Blackhawks, both the Oilers and the Maple Leafs were interested in signing him. Ultimately, he chose to join the Oilers. There was also a chance to sign him back in 2013, when Perry was a free agent. While he ended up inking an eight-year extension, he was very close to signing a deal with the Maple Leafs.

For the Maple Leafs, the addition of Perry could address a significant need for grit and physicality. In past playoff series, the team has struggled against more physical opponents. Perry's presence could provide a counterbalance to teams with a more aggressive playstyle. Moreover, his offensive capabilities, particularly his power-play prowess, would be a valuable asset. During the current playoffs, his contributions have been notable, highlighting what the Leafs could potentially gain from his experience and skill set.

However, some Leafs fans may remember Perry's "villain arc" which started in the 2020-21 season when he signed with the Montreal Canadiens. In Game 1 of the first round that year, he kneed John Tavares in the head, further solidifying his reputation as a hard player to play against.

As Corey Perry approaches free agency, the Toronto Maple Leafs could once again consider adding the veteran winger to their roster. His playoff experience, scoring touch, and ability to agitate opponents could be valuable assets for a team looking to contend for the Stanley Cup. However, they would need to weigh the potential benefits against any concerns about his age and playing style.