Is Corey Perry playing tonight against the Stars? Insider provides latest update on Oilers winger's availability for Game 4

As Game 4 of the Western Conference Finals approaches for the Edmonton Oilers, fans are eager to know whether veteran winger Corey Perry will be hitting the ice against the Dallas Stars. Insights from NHL insider Daniel Nugent Bowman shed light on the situation, giving a glimpse into Coach Kris Knoblauch's lineup decisions.

"Foegele, Carrick and Desharnais are on the ice late. Expect them out and McLeod, Perry and Broberg to be in," Bowman wrote on X.

Corey Perry's time with the Oilers has been a mixed bag, with bursts of performance followed by stretches of relative silence. Despite initially being viewed as a good acquisition for the team, particularly considering his veteran experience and affordable contract, Perry's performance in the playoffs has raised questions about his position in the lineup.

Perry's performances in several games have been underwhelming in the postseason. With zero points and a concerning statistic of being on the ice for three opposing goals while contributing none at 5-on-5, it's evident that Perry hasn't quite found his stride when it matters most.

The change in dynamics has prompted Coach Knoblauch to consider Perry seeing reduced ice time. Perry's past success in Stanley Cup runs is undeniable, but he will have to level up his performance a notch.

Corey Perry and Oilers will be facing a team with a villain mindset

In 2020, the NHL responded to the COVID-19 pandemic by creating a bubble for the Stanley Cup Playoffs, an experience that players and staff found both challenging and memorable.

Teams, including the Dallas Stars, were sequestered in Edmonton for over two months, bonding over the shared experience and forming lasting connections.

Despite the hardships, the Stars embraced the motto:

"We're not going home."

They reached the Stanley Cup Final but ultimately fell short against the Tampa Bay Lightning.

Returning to Edmonton for the 2024 Western Conference Finals brought back memories for many players, triggering emotions and reflections on the past.

Young players like Jake Oettinger and Ty Dellandrea forged close friendships with teammates and gained valuable experience during their time in the bubble. The Stars' success in playoffs was attributed to their unity and determination, with veterans like Jamie Benn leading the way.

Roope Hintz's resurgence in the playoffs, the Stars' strong performance in third periods, and their physical play have been key factors in their playoff success. Defenseman Thomas Harley highlighted goalie Jake Oettinger's and the team's "villain" mentality on the road, contributing to their impressive away record.