BREAKING NEWS:It is done Edmonton oilers legend Wayne Gretzky Returns as the Director of ice hockey In a monumental, Edmonton oilers chairman Bob Nicholson and his family has officially declared that Wayne Gretzky the legendary former captain and long-time face of the franchise, will returns to the organisation in 2025 as the Director of ice hockey vs……see more

In a stunning announcement that has electrified the hockey world, Edmonton Oilers chairman Bob Nicholson, alongside his family and the Oilers’ executive board, has officially confirmed that Wayne Gretzky, the legendary former captain and long-time face of the franchise, will return to the organization in 2025 as the Director of Ice Hockey.

The news marks a monumental homecoming for “The Great One,” who led the Oilers to four Stanley Cup championships during the team’s dynasty years of the 1980s. Gretzky’s influence not only transformed the Oilers but also helped shape the modern NHL, making him one of the most iconic figures in the sport’s history.

🏆 A Hero Comes Home

After more than two decades away from a full-time role with the Oilers organization, Gretzky’s return signals a new era of ambition and leadership for Edmonton’s hockey operations.
Nicholson, in an emotional statement, said:

“This is more than a hiring — it’s a reunion. Wayne represents the soul of this franchise, and having him guide the future of Oilers hockey is something truly special for our city, our fans, and the entire NHL.”

Gretzky himself expressed deep gratitude for the opportunity:

“Edmonton has always been home. I’m thrilled to come back in a role that allows me to help build the next generation of champions. This organization gave me everything — now it’s my turn to give back.”

🧊 What Gretzky’s New Role Means

As Director of Ice Hockey, Gretzky will oversee several key aspects of the Oilers’ hockey operations, including:

• Player Development & Scouting: Mentoring young prospects and shaping the team’s development pipeline.
• Team Strategy & Culture: Working alongside the general manager and coaching staff to establish a winning mentality.
• Franchise Legacy: Acting as an ambassador for the team, reconnecting the Oilers’ rich history with its modern ambitions.

Analysts suggest this move could mark a turning point for Edmonton, whose talented roster — led by stars like Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl — continues to chase another championship banner.

🔥 Fans React with Excitement

Social media exploded within minutes of the announcement.
“He’s home. The Great One is back!” one fan posted on X (formerly Twitter). Another wrote, “This is what Edmonton needed — heart, leadership, and legacy all rolled into one.”

Ticket sales and merchandise demand reportedly spiked immediately following the press release, underscoring Gretzky’s enduring influence on the sport and the city.

🕰️ A Full-Circle Moment

Gretzky’s return also carries deep symbolism. He first joined the Oilers in 1979, helping to elevate a small-market team into a global powerhouse. Now, over four decades later, he re-enters the organization not as a player, but as a mentor and architect — poised to guide the next era of Edmonton excellence.

Sports historians are already calling the move “one of the most significant front-office appointments in modern NHL history.”

🗣️ Final Word

As Edmonton prepares for the 2025–26 NHL season, all eyes will be on Rogers Place — where “The Great One” once dazzled fans on the ice and now returns to lead from behind the bench.

If history is any guide, whenever Wayne Gretzky is involved, greatness follows.