BREAKING NEWS: Edmonton Oilers legends Mark Messier has finalized a landmark agreement deal reportedly worth about $168.5 million to become their new…. See more

The Edmonton Oilers have shocked the hockey world with a major announcement that brings one of the greatest names in franchise history back into the fold. On Tuesday, the organization confirmed that Oilers legend and Hall of Famer Mark Messier has finalized a landmark agreement deal reportedly worth about $168.5 million to become their new team president.

The unprecedented contract, one of the richest executive deals in NHL history, underscores both Messier’s stature as a hockey icon and the Oilers’ ambitious vision for the future. Known as one of the greatest leaders in sports history, Messier’s return to Edmonton signals a renewed push to restore the team’s dominance both on and off the ice.

“Mark Messier is more than just an Oilers legend—he is a symbol of leadership, perseverance, and winning,” Oilers owner Daryl Katz said in a statement. “He helped define this franchise’s golden era, and now, as president, he will help chart the course for its next great chapter. This is a historic day for Edmonton.”

Messier’s responsibilities in his new role will reportedly include oversight of hockey operations, player development, and organizational culture. He is also expected to take a hands-on role in mentoring younger players, particularly franchise superstar Connor McDavid, as the Oilers aim to capture their first Stanley Cup since 1990—a championship Messier himself helped deliver.

For the man known as “The Moose,” the appointment is deeply personal. Drafted by the Oilers in 1979, Messier played a pivotal role in the team’s dynasty years of the 1980s, winning five Stanley Cups alongside Wayne Gretzky before leading the Oilers to another Cup in 1990 after Gretzky’s departure. His legacy as a fierce competitor and inspirational captain is immortalized not only in Edmonton but across the hockey world.

“This city and this team gave me everything,” Messier said during the press conference announcing the deal. “I wore the Oilers jersey with pride, and now I’ll serve this organization in a new capacity. My goal is to help bring another Stanley Cup back to Edmonton, to the fans who have waited so patiently and supported this team through every high and low.”

The $168.5 million figure has sparked conversation across the NHL, with analysts noting that such a large financial commitment to a team president is almost unheard of. However, Oilers executives believe Messier’s impact—ranging from hockey operations to global branding—makes the investment worthwhile. His name recognition and championship pedigree are expected to boost not only the team’s performance but also its stature on the international stage.

Reactions from fans have been overwhelmingly positive. Social media was flooded with celebratory messages shortly after the news broke. One fan wrote: “Mark Messier back with the Oilers—this is what dreams are made of. The Cup is coming home.” Another added: “No one knows winning like Mess. This is the leadership we’ve needed.”

As the Oilers prepare for the upcoming NHL season, all eyes will be on how Messier transitions into his new role. While his contributions as a player are etched into history, the hockey world is eager to see if he can replicate that success as the architect of Edmonton’s future.