How Wayne Gretzky Shaped the Future: A Legacy Timeline

A closer look at the lasting mark left by Wayne Gretzky—a timeline of influence.

Wayne Gretzky, a Canadian former professional ice hockey player, widely regarded as "the Great One," is considered the greatest hockey player ever. He played 20 seasons in the NHL, setting numerous records. Gretzky holds the record for career points and assists, remarkably having more assists than any other player's total career points. He is the only NHL player to surpass 200 points in a single season, achieving this four times and exceeding 100 points in 15 seasons. Upon his retirement in 1999, Gretzky held 61 NHL records, solidifying his legacy as a dominant force in ice hockey.

Sections (5)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Legacy & Impact

1987: 1987 Canada Cup

In 1987, Wayne Gretzky considered the Canada Cup the best hockey he played in his life. He played on a line with Mario Lemieux and recorded a tournament-best 21 points in nine games, leading Canada to victory against the Soviets in a memorable three-game final series.

August 9, 1988: Trade to Los Angeles Kings

On August 9, 1988, Gretzky was traded to the Los Angeles Kings. This trade had an immediate impact on the team's performance, eventually leading them to the 1993 Stanley Cup Finals, and is credited with popularizing hockey in California.

1988: Gretzky's Return to Edmonton

In 1988, Wayne Gretzky made his first appearance in Edmonton after being traded, receiving a four-minute standing ovation. A life-sized bronze statue of Gretzky holding the Stanley Cup was erected outside Northlands Coliseum after the 1988-89 season.

1990: Gretzky Named Athlete of the Decade

In 1990, Wayne Gretzky was named Male Athlete of the Decade by the Associated Press. The Oilers, without Gretzky, won their fifth Stanley Cup, which Mark Messier dedicated to him.

1997: Gretzky Ranked as Greatest NHL Player

In 1997, The Hockey News ranked Wayne Gretzky as the greatest player in NHL history based on a vote by 50 hockey experts.

April 18, 1999: Final Game

On April 18, 1999, Wayne Gretzky played the final game of his NHL career, which resulted in a 2–1 overtime loss to the Pittsburgh Penguins at Madison Square Garden. Both the Canadian and American national anthems were played, with altered lyrics to honor Gretzky. Gretzky recorded an assist, his final point, on Brian Leetch's goal.

August 1999: Honorary Chairman of the Open Ice Summit

In August 1999, Gretzky was named honorary chairman of the Open Ice Summit to discuss improving Canadian ice hockey. He emphasized playing and practicing for the love of the game, prioritizing skill development over talent, and aiming for Canada to lead in skill development.

October 1999: Wayne Gretzky Drive

In October 1999, the city of Edmonton honored Wayne Gretzky by renaming Capilano Drive, a major freeway near Northlands Coliseum, to Wayne Gretzky Drive. A rush-hour bus route No. 99 was also assigned to run on the renamed drive.

November 22, 1999: Induction into the Hockey Hall of Fame

On November 22, 1999, Wayne Gretzky was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame, bypassing the three-year waiting period. He was the tenth and last player to do so.

1999: Induction into Hockey Hall of Fame

After his retirement in 1999, Gretzky was immediately inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame, waiving the waiting period. The NHL retired his jersey number 99 league-wide.

2000: Part-Owner of Phoenix Coyotes and IIHF Hall of Fame Induction

In 2000, Gretzky became part-owner of the Phoenix Coyotes. He was also inducted into the IIHF Hall of Fame in 2000.

2000: Jersey Number Retired

In 2000, Gretzky was inducted into the IIHF Hall of Fame. His jersey number 99 was retired league-wide at the 2000 NHL All-Star Game, inspired by Major League Baseball's retirement of Jackie Robinson's number 42.

2002: Jersey Retirement and Statue

In 2002, the Los Angeles Kings held a jersey retirement ceremony for Wayne Gretzky and erected a life-sized statue of him outside the Staples Center. Gretzky also received a star on Canada's Walk of Fame in Toronto.