BREAKING NEWS: Excitement fills Rogers Place as Edmonton Oilers star Wayne Gretzky announces, I’m not going anywhere. He is set to return for the 2025-26 season after making the bold decision. Coach Kris Knoblauch has promised to make him…
In a move no one saw coming, but everyone will be talking about for weeks, Wayne Gretzky — the undisputed legend of the NHL and the heart of Edmonton hockey — has officially announced his stunning return to the game. “I’m not going anywhere,” Gretzky declared with a trademark grin during a press conference at Rogers Place this morning, sending shockwaves of joy through Oilers Nation.
Gretzky, whose name is synonymous with hockey greatness, originally retired in 1999, leaving behind an unmatched legacy of 894 goals, 1,963 assists, and four Stanley Cups with the Oilers in the 1980s. Though he’s stayed close to the game as a commentator, executive, and mentor, few imagined a return to the ice was still in the cards.
Coach Kris Knoblauch’s Vision
Oilers head coach Kris Knoblauch stood proudly beside Gretzky during the announcement, hinting at a larger plan in motion. “We’re not bringing Wayne back to sit on the bench,” Knoblauch stated. “He’s going to be part of our on-ice identity. He brings experience, leadership, and a level of hockey IQ that still rivals anyone playing today. We’re building something special, and Wayne’s return is a cornerstone of that vision.”
While details of Gretzky’s role on the roster are still under wraps, sources inside the organization suggest he’ll wear a hybrid position — contributing both on the ice and in a player-coach capacity.
Fans and Players React
Outside Rogers Place, fans gathered in droves, chanting his name and waving vintage #99 jerseys. Social media exploded within minutes of the announcement, with “Wayne Gretzky” and “He’s Back” trending globally.
Current Oilers captain Connor McDavid shared his excitement on X: “To skate beside my idol? Unreal. Let’s go, Wayne!”
Veterans and rookies alike are reportedly energized by the news, with many seeing Gretzky’s return as a rallying moment for the team heading into a high-expectations season.
What’s Next?
Training camp will offer the first glimpse of Gretzky back in full gear, and ticket sales for the 2025-26 season have already surged. Whether he’ll play a full 82-game season or take a more flexible schedule remains to be seen — but one thing is clear: hockey just got a lot more exciting.
As Gretzky himself put it: “I may be older, but I’ve still got magic left in the stick.”
Stay tuned — this story is just getting started.
