The Los Angeles Kings’ 2025–26 campaign has hit an unexpected and deeply human roadblock. Veteran winger Corey Perry, a key locker-room presence and a two-time Stanley Cup champion, has stepped away from the team. The reason? A family member is seriously ill. The Kings have officially placed him on non-roster status, a move that allows him the time and space he needs while freeing up a roster spot .
This isn’t just a routine lineup change; it’s a significant moment for a team that relies heavily on Perry’s grit, leadership, and championship experience. His sudden absence forces a tough question: How do you replace a player whose value extends far beyond the scoresheet? This article dives deep into Perry’s situation, the immediate impact on the Kings, and what this means for their playoff push.
Table of Contents
- The Human Story Behind Corey Perry’s Non-Roster Status
- Corey Perry’s Value to the Kings: Beyond the Stats
- Emergency Measures: Kings’ Roster Moves in January 2026
- The Path Forward for Perry and the Kings
- Conclusion: A Test of Depth and Character
- Sources
The Human Story Behind Corey Perry’s Non-Roster Status
Sports are often about wins and losses, but sometimes, real life intervenes in the most profound ways. On January 7, 2026, the LA Kings announced that Corey Perry had been designated as a non-roster player . This administrative term carries a heavy weight: it means Perry has left the team to return home and attend to a sick family member .
The team and his teammates have offered their full support, with the organization making it clear that there is no timetable for his return. In a league where every point matters, this decision underscores the Kings’ commitment to their players as people first. It’s a stark reminder that behind the helmets and jerseys are individuals with lives and loved ones outside the rink.
Corey Perry’s Value to the Kings: Beyond the Stats
At 40 years old, Perry is in the twilight of a legendary NHL career. His resume is staggering: a Hart Trophy winner, a two-time Olympic gold medalist, and a player with over 950 career points across 1,427 games . While his on-ice production for the Kings this season may not mirror his peak Anaheim years, his role is irreplaceable.
Perry serves as a de facto assistant coach on the ice. He’s the veteran who can calm a young player after a mistake, the agitator who gets under an opponent’s skin, and the leader who sets the standard in practice. For a Kings team blending promising youth with seasoned veterans, losing that steady hand in the locker room is a major blow. His absence creates a leadership vacuum that statistics alone cannot measure.
Emergency Measures: Kings’ Roster Moves in January 2026
The Kings couldn’t afford to stand still. Perry’s departure, combined with other injuries like Trevor Moore’s illness and Anze Kopitar’s lower-body issue, created an urgent need for bodies . The solution came from their American Hockey League (AHL) affiliate, the Ontario Reign.
In a series of swift transactions on January 7th and 8th, the Kings made the following emergency recalls :
- Andre Lee (Forward)
- Taylor Ward (Forward)
- Cole Guttman (Forward)
These moves were explicitly labeled as “on an emergency basis,” highlighting the temporary nature of the crisis . The pressure is now on these young players to step into a high-stakes NHL environment, a tall order against the backdrop of a tight Western Conference playoff race. For more on the Kings’ development pipeline, see our piece on [INTERNAL_LINK:kings-ahl-ontario-reign-prospects].
The Path Forward for Perry and the Kings
The Kings have stated they will provide updates on Perry’s status as appropriate, but they’ve also emphasized that his focus must remain entirely on his family . There is no pressure for a quick return. This is the right approach, both ethically and strategically. Rushing a player back from such a personal crisis is a recipe for poor performance and further distraction.
For the team, the next few weeks are a critical test of their depth and resilience. Can their young forwards fill the gap? Can the remaining veterans, like Kopitar once he’s healthy, shoulder an even greater leadership load? The answer will likely determine whether the Kings can maintain their position in the standings during this challenging period.
Conclusion: A Test of Depth and Character
Corey Perry’s non-roster status is a poignant story that transcends hockey. It’s a moment that tests the character of an entire organization. While his absence is a tactical setback for the LA Kings, the way they’ve handled the situation—with grace, support, and decisive roster management—speaks volumes about their culture. The hope from fans everywhere is for a swift recovery for Perry’s family member, and that when he’s ready, he’ll be welcomed back to a team that’s held the fort in his absence.
Sources
Times of India: Corey Perry leaves Los Angeles Kings after being placed on non-roster status
Los Angeles Kings Official Site: Kings Recall Lee, Ward from Ontario