The Edmonton Oilers are making headlines once again as they prepare for a pivotal Game 4 in the Stanley Cup Final, and all eyes are on veteran forward Corey Perry. Despite his impressive performance on the top line alongside Connor McDavid in recent games, Perry now finds himself facing a stunning demotion to the fourth line.

At 40 years old, the former Montreal Canadiens fan-favorite has defied expectations all season, proving he’s still a valuable asset on the ice. Yet, with the Oilers looking to shake things up after a tough loss, head coach Kris Knoblauch is making bold changes to the lineup. As Perry adapts to his new role and the Oilers fight to keep their championship dreams alive, fans are left wondering what impact these decisions will have on tonight’s crucial matchup.

Jun 6, 2025; Edmonton, Alberta, CAN; Edmonton Oilers right wing Corey Perry (90) during the third period in game two of the 2025 Stanley Cup Final at Rogers Place. Mandatory Credit: Perry Nelson-Imagn Images

Photo credit: Perry Nelson-Imagn Images

Montreal Canadiens fans know forward Corey Perry well. Now 40 years old, he’s still providing valuable services to the Edmonton Oilers and isn’t thinking about retiring from the NHL anytime soon-at least according to his own words.

For several games now, he’s been playing on the team’s top line alongside Connor McDavid and Ryan Nugent-Hopkins, and he’s been performing quite well.

However, after the Oilers’ most recent loss, head coach Kris Knoblauch decided to make a few changes-and one of the players paying a heavy price is none other than Perry.

Former Canadiens Forward Corey Perry Demoted to Oilers’ Fourth Line

Going from Connor McDavid’s first line to the fourth line is quite the drop..

“Lineup changes for the Oilers for Game 4.

Perry demoted
Stetcher enters the lineup
Arvidsson and Klingberg are scratched

RNH-McDavid-Brown
Kane-Draisaitl-Kapanen
Skinner-Henrique-Frederic
Podkolzin-Janmark-Perry

Kulak-Bouchard
Ekholm-Walman
Nurse-Stecher”

Also worth noting, the Oilers are going back to Stuart Skinner in net.

Corey Perry recorded 30 points (19 goals) in 81 games this season in Edmonton, plus 13 points (9 goals) in 19 playoff games.

His role is going to shrink drastically tonight, which is a big surprise given how well he was playing-but rest assured, he’ll still do everything he can to help his team.

What’s your prediction for tonight’s game?