Published 11/25/2022, 12:00 PM EST
Wayne Gretzky began his affair with ice when he was just three years old. Undoubtedly, he had an advantage over his peers because Gretzky knew the game at a very early age. Gretzky, the NHL’s all-time great, is known not just for his mind-boggling numbers, but also for his deep understanding of the game. In a 2016 interview, he praised a 19-year-old as the best ever at that age; and his words still ring true today.
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Gretzky played for four teams during his two-decade-long career. He started off with the Edmonton Oilers and shared a close connection with the team. In a 2016 interview, the NHL Hall of Famer hailed Connor McDavid as a player with immense potential.
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Wayne Gretzky praised McDavid for being ahead of his peers
Beating the legends at his age, the then 19-year-old McDavid impressed Gretzky with his phenomenal skills in 2016. In the interview, Gretzky affirmed that there were no second thoughts that, Connor was the best 19-year-old hockey player he had ever seen.
Oct 21, 2021; Glendale, Arizona, USA; Edmonton Oilers center Connor McDavid (97) celebrates his goal against the Arizona Coyotes during the second period at Gila River Arena. It was the 200th career NHL goal for McDavid. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
Besides, he mentioned the players he had seen at that age, including Mark Messier, Mario Lemieux, and Guy Lafleur. “This kid is special,” he reiterated. Amazed by watching Connor play awakened the youthful spirit in him to hit the ice again when he stated, “I could get 60 goals playing with that guy.”
“Now, it’s going to take time. He’s still only 19,” Gretzky added. “He has everything in place to become the best player in the National Hockey League and go on to win some championships for the Edmonton Oilers.”
McDavid became the first Oiler to create a record after Gretzky
McDavid became the first Oiler since Gretzky in 1987 to record at least six points in the opening two games of a season. Notably, Connor McDavid is also the current captain of the Edmonton Oilers of the NHL.
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View this post on Instagram A post shared by Connor McDavid (@mcdavid97)
He has been praised by his fans and journalists for his speed and agility and is often compared with the legend Gretzky. He has also won the Fastest Skater at the NHL All-Star Skill Competition three times. Interestingly, Gretzky also noted his speed and wished he could steal it.
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Although it is too early to make a call, do you think McDavid will surpass Gretzky’s legacy in the NHL? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.