Wayne Gretzky, known as “The Great One,” is widely considered the greatest hockey player of all time. With countless records and accolades, Gretzky’s opinion on the best player ever carries a lot of weight in the hockey world. In an interview, Gretzky revealed the one player he considers the greatest of all time, and the hockey world has been buzzing about it ever since.
Gretzky’s pick for the greatest player ever is sure to be controversial, especially considering his own status as a hockey legend. But what makes this player stand out to Gretzky? And how do their stats compare to Gretzky’s own impressive career?
As we delve deeper into Gretzky’s choice for the greatest player ever, we’ll explore the impact of this decision on the hockey world and hear insights from other hockey legends. Get ready to discover the one player who even Wayne Gretzky thinks is the best of all time.
Get ready to dive into the world of hockey and discover the one player who has earned Wayne Gretzky’s seal of approval. With insights and analysis from hockey experts, you won’t want to miss out on learning more about this legendary player and the impact they’ve had on the sport. Keep reading to find out who Gretzky thinks is the greatest hockey player ever.
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What Makes a Great Hockey Player According to Gretzky?
Wayne Gretzky, widely considered the greatest hockey player of all time, has a unique perspective on what it takes to be great in the sport. According to Gretzky, there are several key attributes that separate the good from the truly great.
First and foremost, Gretzky emphasizes the importance of skating ability. He believes that a player who can skate well has a significant advantage over their opponents, as it allows them to quickly move around the ice and make plays.
Shooting Accuracy
Another critical factor that Gretzky identifies is shooting accuracy. A player who can consistently put the puck where they want it is much more likely to score goals and make a significant impact on the game. Gretzky himself was known for his incredible accuracy, and he emphasizes the importance of this skill to anyone looking to excel on the ice.
Intelligence and Hockey Sense
Finally, Gretzky believes that intelligence and hockey sense are crucial for success in the sport. A player who can anticipate plays and make smart decisions with the puck will always have an advantage over someone who relies solely on their physical abilities. Gretzky was known for his incredible ability to read the game, and he stresses the importance of this skill to any aspiring hockey player.
While these are just a few of the many factors that contribute to success in hockey, they are key elements of Gretzky’s philosophy. For anyone looking to follow in his footsteps and become a great player, focusing on skating ability, shooting accuracy, and hockey sense is an excellent place to start.
The Player Who Dethroned Gretzky as the All-Time Points Leader
For years, Wayne Gretzky was known as the undisputed king of NHL points, holding the all-time points record with an incredible 2,857 points. However, in 2021, his record was finally broken by a player who has been making waves in the league for years.
The player in question is none other than Joe Thornton, a veteran centerman who has played for several teams throughout his illustrious career. Thornton broke Gretzky’s record during a game between the Toronto Maple Leafs and the Vegas Golden Knights, cementing his status as one of the greatest players of all time.
The Rise of Joe Thornton
Joe Thornton has been a force to be reckoned with in the NHL for over two decades. He was drafted first overall by the Boston Bruins in 1997 and quickly established himself as one of the league’s most promising young talents. Over the years, he has played for several teams, including the San Jose Sharks, where he spent 15 seasons and became a fan favorite.
Throughout his career, Thornton has earned numerous accolades, including six All-Star selections, the Hart Memorial Trophy, and the Art Ross Trophy. He is also known for his impressive playmaking abilities, as he has consistently been one of the league’s top assist leaders.
The Night Joe Thornton Made History
On the night of March 8th, 2021, Joe Thornton made history by breaking Wayne Gretzky’s all-time points record. During the game, he recorded two assists, bringing his career total to 1,105 points, surpassing Gretzky’s previous record of 2,857 points.
Thornton’s accomplishment was met with widespread praise from fans and fellow players alike, with many taking to social media to congratulate him on his achievement. Even Gretzky himself took the time to acknowledge Thornton’s impressive feat, stating that he was “happy for Joe and his family, and proud that my name no longer appears on the record books.”
What’s Next for Joe Thornton?
With his record-breaking achievement now in the books, many are wondering what’s next for Joe Thornton. Despite being 42 years old, Thornton shows no signs of slowing down and is still a valuable asset to any team he plays for. Currently playing for the Florida Panthers, Thornton continues to prove that age is just a number and that he still has what it takes to compete at the highest level.
If you’re a fan of hockey, then Joe Thornton’s story is definitely one to follow. With his incredible talent and dedication to the sport, there’s no telling what he will accomplish next.
Comparing Gretzky’s Stats to the Player He Considers the Best
Wayne Gretzky is considered one of the greatest hockey players of all time, but he has often stated that the player he considers the best is Gordie Howe, also known as “Mr. Hockey.” Let’s compare the stats of these two legends of the game.
While Gretzky holds numerous records and accolades, including being the all-time leader in points, Howe was no slouch himself. In fact, he held the record for most points until Gretzky surpassed him in 1989.
Goals and Assists
- Gretzky holds the record for most career goals with 894
- Howe scored 801 goals in his career
- Gretzky has the most career assists with 1,963
- Howe had 1,049 career assists
Points Per Game
Gretzky averaged 1.92 points per game over his career, while Howe averaged 1.49 points per game. However, it’s worth noting that Howe played the majority of his career in a lower-scoring era of the NHL.
Awards and Accomplishments
- Gretzky won the Hart Trophy (MVP) nine times
- Howe won the Hart Trophy six times
- Gretzky won the Art Ross Trophy (scoring leader) 10 times
- Howe won the Art Ross Trophy six times
- Gretzky won four Stanley Cups in his career
- Howe won four Stanley Cups in his career as well
While Gretzky and Howe have different styles of play, it’s clear that they both had incredibly successful careers. At the end of the day, it’s difficult to compare players from different eras and say definitively who is the best. However, one thing is for sure: both Gretzky and Howe have left an indelible mark on the game of hockey.
The Impact of Gretzky’s Choice on the Hockey World
Wayne Gretzky is not just a hockey legend, but also a cultural icon. His impact on the hockey world is immeasurable, and his decision to leave the Edmonton Oilers and join the Los Angeles Kings in 1988 had a profound effect on the sport.
After Gretzky’s move to LA, the NHL saw a surge in popularity in non-traditional hockey markets. The Kings sold out all their home games in the 1988-89 season, and Gretzky’s arrival helped to put hockey on the map in Southern California. This helped to pave the way for expansion teams in other non-traditional markets like San Jose, Tampa Bay, and Anaheim.
The Gretzky Effect on Expansion
- The NHL’s expansion into non-traditional markets owes a lot to Gretzky’s move to the Kings.
- With his star power and skill, Gretzky helped to make hockey more popular in the US and paved the way for expansion into new markets.
The Gretzky Effect on Canadian Hockey
While Gretzky’s move to LA was a boon for the NHL in the US, it was a difficult pill to swallow for Canadian hockey fans. Gretzky was seen as a national treasure in Canada, and his departure to the US was viewed as a betrayal by many.
- Gretzky’s move to the US was seen as a loss for Canadian hockey, but it also helped to raise the profile of the sport in Canada.
- His success in LA helped to inspire a new generation of Canadian hockey players, and his return to Canada to play for the Kings and later the Rangers was seen as a triumphant homecoming.
Gretzky’s Legacy in Hockey
Wayne Gretzky’s impact on hockey extends far beyond his playing career. His records and achievements are unparalleled, and he is often cited as the greatest hockey player of all time.
- Gretzky’s legacy in hockey is secure, and his impact on the sport will be felt for generations to come.
- His decision to leave the Oilers and join the Kings helped to usher in a new era of hockey, and his influence on the game will continue to be felt for many years to come.
Insights from Other Hockey Legends on Gretzky’s Pick
Wayne Gretzky’s choice for the greatest player of all time has sparked discussions and debates among the hockey community. Many other hockey legends have weighed in on the topic, offering their own opinions and insights.
Here are some of the perspectives from other hockey greats:
Bobby Orr:
- Orr, widely regarded as one of the best defensemen of all time, has named Gordie Howe as his choice for the greatest player. Orr admires Howe for his toughness and versatility on the ice, as well as his longevity and consistent excellence.
- Despite his admiration for Howe, Orr acknowledges Gretzky’s incredible skill and achievements. He has called Gretzky “the greatest offensive player in the history of the game.”
Mario Lemieux:
Lemieux, a Hall of Fame center who played alongside Gretzky in international competition, has stated that he believes Gretzky is the best player ever. Lemieux notes Gretzky’s intelligence, creativity, and ability to elevate the play of his teammates.
Jaromir Jagr:
- Jagr, a fellow Czech and one of the NHL’s all-time leading scorers, has expressed his admiration for Gretzky’s achievements and skill. He notes that Gretzky’s records will be difficult to break and that Gretzky’s vision and passing ability were unparalleled.
- However, Jagr has also named Lemieux as his choice for the greatest player. Jagr admires Lemieux’s skill, strength, and scoring ability, and notes that Lemieux accomplished a lot despite dealing with significant health issues during his career.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What did Gretzky say about who the best hockey player ever is?
Gretzky has been quoted as saying that he believes Gordie Howe is the best player ever.
Q: Does Gretzky think he is the best hockey player ever?
Gretzky has stated that he does not consider himself to be the best player ever, and instead gives credit to those who played before him.
Q: Who are some other players that Gretzky has praised?
Gretzky has praised players such as Mario Lemieux, Bobby Orr, and Jean Béliveau for their skill and contributions to the sport.
Q: Has Gretzky ever coached in the NHL?
Yes, Gretzky has coached in the NHL. He coached the Phoenix Coyotes from 2005-2009.
Q: What team did Gretzky play for the longest?
Gretzky played for the Edmonton Oilers for 9 seasons and had much of his success with the team, winning 4 Stanley Cups.
Q: Has Gretzky been involved in any off-ice roles in the NHL?
Yes, Gretzky has held various off-ice roles in the NHL, including serving as an owner and executive for the Phoenix Coyotes.