BREAKING NEWS: Excitement Hits Rogers Place Stadium as Former Edmonton Oilers Legend Wayne Gretzky Returns to His Former Team as a Senior Coaching Advisor
Edmonton, AB – July 13, 2025 — In a stunning and emotional homecoming, hockey fans across Canada and the world are celebrating as the Edmonton Oilers have officially announced the return of NHL legend Wayne Gretzky to the franchise — this time behind the bench. The “Great One” is rejoining the team in a Senior Coaching Advisor role, signaling a new era of hope and ambition for the Oilers organization.
The announcement was made this morning at a press conference held at Rogers Place, which erupted in cheers from fans, media, and current players alike as Gretzky walked onto the stage wearing an Oilers lapel pin. Flanked by Oilers General Manager Ken Holland and Head Coach Kris Knoblauch, Gretzky expressed his heartfelt emotions about returning to the city where his legendary NHL career blossomed.
> “This city gave me everything,” Gretzky said, visibly moved. “It’s where I grew up, both as a player and as a person. I always said Edmonton would have a special place in my heart, and I’m here today to give back in the best way I can — by helping this team chase greatness again.”
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A Legendary Career Comes Full Circle
Wayne Gretzky, widely regarded as the greatest hockey player of all time, led the Oilers to four Stanley Cups during the franchise’s golden years in the 1980s. During his time with the team from 1979 to 1988, he shattered records, transformed the game, and became the face of hockey worldwide.
After his departure to the Los Angeles Kings in 1988 in one of the most talked-about trades in sports history, Gretzky continued to make an indelible mark on the sport, eventually retiring in 1999. Since then, he has served in various executive and ambassadorial roles, including Vice Chairman of the Oilers for a brief time in the mid-2010s and later as an analyst with TNT Sports. His return in an active coaching advisory capacity, however, is a major milestone.
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What Gretzky’s Role Means for the Oilers
According to the team’s official statement, Gretzky will act as a Senior Coaching Advisor, working closely with Head Coach Kris Knoblauch and the rest of the coaching staff. His responsibilities will include mentoring younger players, advising on offensive strategies, player development, and instilling a winning culture rooted in the dynasty years of the franchise.
Gretzky is not expected to be on the bench during games, but he will be a visible and active presence at practices, team meetings, and in key decision-making discussions.
> “We’re not just bringing back a legend; we’re adding one of the greatest minds in hockey history to our team,” said GM Ken Holland. “Wayne has a unique ability to see the game and communicate with players in a way that’s inspiring and transformative. His presence is going to have an incredible impact.”
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Player and Fan Reactions
Current Oilers captain Connor McDavid was among the first to react publicly to the news, posting on social media, “An absolute honor to have Wayne back with the team. A true icon and a massive boost for everyone in the locker room.”
Other players echoed similar sentiments, with veteran defenseman Darnell Nurse calling Gretzky’s return “the ultimate motivator.” Rookie forward Zach Lavoie, who grew up idolizing Gretzky, described the chance to learn from him as “a dream come true.”
Fans gathered outside Rogers Place shortly after the announcement, many wearing vintage Gretzky jerseys, waving Oilers flags, and chanting his name. One lifelong supporter, Marlene Jenkins, who witnessed Gretzky’s debut in 1979, said through tears, “I never thought I’d see this day. It feels like we’ve come full circle.”
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The Bigger Picture: Can the Oilers Finally Win Again?
The Oilers have had a roller-coaster journey in recent years. Despite having a generational talent in McDavid and a strong core, playoff success has been elusive. The team made it to the Stanley Cup Final in 2022 but fell short. Last season’s early exit left fans and analysts once again questioning the team’s direction.
With Gretzky’s return, the organization is clearly signaling a renewed focus on building a championship culture — not just through stats and lineups, but through leadership, mentality, and legacy.
> “It’s not just about X’s and O’s,” Gretzky said. “It’s about heart. About believing. That’s what made our dynasty years so special — and I want these young players to feel that same fire.”
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A Historic Moment for the NHL
Wayne Gretzky returning to the Oilers in a coaching capacity is not only monumental for Edmonton but also for the NHL at large. NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman issued a statement calling the news “a landmark moment that reminds us of hockey’s enduring legends and their power to inspire future generations.”
As the Oilers gear up for the 2025–2026 season, all eyes will be on how Gretzky’s influence shapes the team. While his skates may be retired, the Great One’s presence on the ice — in spirit and strategy — is back where it belongs.
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One thing is certain: Rogers Place won’t just be filled with fans this season — it will be filled with magic, memories, and renewed belief that glory days could soon return to Edmonton.