Why Is Corey Perry Called the Worm
Corey Perry earned the nickname "The Worm" through his unique blend of skill and aggression on the ice. But why is Corey Perry called the Worm? The answer lies in his relentless playing style and his ability to slip past defenders like a worm burrowing through soil. This nickname has stuck with him throughout his entire NHL career and it perfectly captures what makes him such a tough opponent to face.
How Todd Bertuzzi gave Perry "The Worm"
Todd Bertuzzi, Perry's former Anaheim Ducks teammate, created the nickname during the 2007-08 season. Bertuzzi watched Perry maneuver through tight spaces and slither around defenders with surprising agility. Perry didn't bull through opponents he found clever angles and gaps instead. Bertuzzi saw the comparison immediately and gave him the name that would stick with him forever.
What makes Perry so annoying to play against
Perry combines real goal-scoring ability with relentless physical play, which is what makes him so effective He frustrates defenders by constantly moving, poking, and positioning himself in dangerous areas (seriously, he never stops) He gets under opponents' skin without necessarily dropping the gloves Perry scored 50 goals in 2010-11 and won the Hart Trophy that season, proving he had more than just a pestering game Defenders hate playing against him because they never know what he'll do next, which is exactly the point.
From Anaheim to the Kings
Perry spent 14 years with the Ducks and won the Stanley Cup with them in 2007. After leaving Anaheim, he played for Dallas, Montreal, Tampa Bay, Chicago, and Edmonton before joining the Los Angeles Kings. His "The Worm" style remained effective throughout every stop along the way. Even as roles changed, teams valued his veteran toughness and ability to battle in tight playoff games.
Why "The Worm" still matters today
Perry's nickname reflects more than just an old joke it represents his lasting value in the NHL. Younger players can learn from his relentless work ethic and mental toughness. Teams still want him in the lineup during important games because he knows how to win. His ability to worm around defenders and stay competetive keeps him relevant, proving that grit and determination matter just as much as raw talent in professional hockey.
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