Perry's Playing Style and Behavior
Corey Perry, a 40-year-old forward for Tampa Bay, has earned the villain label through aggressive playoff tactics. In Game 2, he was penalized for roughing and was observed yelling at multiple Canadiens players from the penalty box. During an April 9 regular-season matchup at Bell Centre, Perry shoved star defenseman Lane Hutson and told him to get off the ice in a game that featured 126 penalty minutes.
Historical Context with Montreal
Perry's villain status in Montreal carries irony. He played for the Canadiens during the 2020-21 season, which was shortened by COVID-19, and was a fan favorite at that time. Montreal reached the Stanley Cup Final that season before losing to Perry's current team, the Lightning. Now facing his former team in the playoffs, Montreal fans have shifted to booing him loudly.
Lightning's Collective Bad-Boy Image
Perry is not alone in his villain role. The Lightning led the NHL with 425 penalties during the regular season and embrace their rambunctious, in-your-face playing style. Coach Jon Cooper acknowledged that somebody needs to be the villain, and the team is comfortable with that identity. Teammates Brandon Hagel, Scott Sabourin, and Nikita Kucherov have also earned Montreal fans' wrath through aggressive play.
Perry's Perspective on the Role
Perry openly embraces being called a villain and views it as a positive sign. He stated that when fans boo him for having the puck, it means he's doing something right. Perry sees the hostile reception as fuel that adds excitement and motivation. He explains that while players can be friendly off-ice, playoff hockey demands an aggressive, win-at-all-costs mentality.
Additional Incidents
Brandon Hagel, Perry's teammate, was also captured on video losing his mind in the penalty box during Game 2, even making a weeping gesture at Canadiens players. Hagel has four points through two games and engaged in a bout with Juraj Slafkovsky. Scott Sabourin attempted to drop gloves with Josh Anderson and was penalized for knocking down Anderson from behind. 
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