Wayne Gretzky already lands new NHL job!

Moments after leaving the Oilers…

HockeyFeed
HockeyFeed
Published 2 years ago
Wayne Gretzky already lands new NHL job!
Zuma Press

On Tuesday afternoon, Wayne Gretzky announced that he is stepping down as vice chairman of the franchise. 

This is the Great One’s statement: 

With great appreciation, I wanted to let everyone know that I have decided to step away as Vice Chairman of the Edmonton Oilers effective today.
The Oilers, their fans, and the city of Edmonton have meant the world to me and my family for over four decades–and that will never end. Given the pandemic and other life changes, I realize I will not be able to dedicate the time nor effort needed to support this world-class organization.
I want to thank Daryl & Renee Katz, their family, and entire team for all the support and friendship these last several years, and wish them nothing but success.
Then, moments later, The New York Post revealed that Gretzky was joining TNT’s NHL coverage after leaving Oilers post. 

Earlier this month, it was reported that ESPN had approached Gretzky about a broadcasting role, according to multiple sources. As you know, ESPN reached a seven-year television, streaming and media rights deal with the NHL in March and was looking to land big-name hockey personalities to its broadcasting team. It’s easy to understand how the league’s all-time leading scorer  fits the bill, however, back then the Great One had yet to give an answer to this offer, though ESPN hasn’t been given a “no.”

And on Tuesday, it was a YES. 

“Wayne Gretzky will be a lead analyst on Turner’s forthcoming premiere studio show after agreeing to a contract that will pay him in the neighborhood of $3 million per season, according to sources.”

ESPN and Turner Sports’ deals both kick in at the beginning of the 2021-22 season and run through the 2027-28 season.

Gretzky’s departure from the Oilers then makes total sense.