Unlike Mailloux, for whom the situation is not very clear and may require a meeting with Bettman before officially playing in the NHL, it's the opposite for Perry.
Indeed, Perry has met with Bettman. The two men had a good discussion, and the forward has Bettman's blessing to sign with an NHL team.
We know that the Canadiens are sorely lacking depth in their attack, and a quality veteran like Perry could greatly help. It seems like he doesn't age; he is still very effective, especially with the younger players.
Moreover, Perry has maintained a good relationship with some players from the 2020-21 team, including Cole Caufield and Nick Suzuki. Kent Hughes could sign him, and at worst, trade him on March 8 if the Canadiens have no chance of making the playoffs.