Wayne Gretzky reveals the one thing that set playing for the Oilers apart from every other NHL team

When most people think of hockey legends, Wayne Gretzky is the first name that often comes to mind. Known as “The Great One,” Gretzky’s impact on the NHL and the sport’s growth in the United States is unmatched. Over his illustrious two-decade career, he played for the Edmonton Oilers, New York Rangers, St. Louis Blues, and Los Angeles Kings.

Despite his time with several teams, Gretzky has always spoken fondly of his years in Edmonton. In an exclusive interview with Cigar Aficionado, he explained why playing for the Oilers felt different. Unlike the more corporate atmospheres in larger cities, Edmonton’s fans created a close-knit, family-like environment that made the experience unique.

“I could look across the ring, and I can remember seeing the same four or five people in the same seats for 35 out of 40 games,” Gretzky said a few months ago. This personal connection with the crowd made playing in Edmonton special and created lasting memories beyond the game itself.

What made playing for the Oilers so special?

Gretzky emphasized that the Oilers’ culture was built around community and familiarity, setting it apart from other NHL franchises. The strong bond between players and fans fostered a sense of belonging rarely seen elsewhere.

Alex Ovechkin #8 and Wayne Gretzky celebrate Ovechkin’s record-breaking 895th NHL career goal against the New York Islanders at UBS Arena on April 06, 2025 in Elmont, New York. (Photo by Bruce Bennett/Getty Images)

The painful trade and lasting loyalty

The trade that sent Gretzky to the Los Angeles Kings in 1988 was a tough moment for him. He confessed that playing against his former Oilers team was one of the hardest parts of his career, revealing his deep emotional ties to Edmonton. “I always felt deep down inside of me, I’m an Oiler,” he said, underlining the loyalty that still defines his legacy.

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