Gretzky vs. McDavid: 9 Seasons of Oilers’ Greatness

Wayne Gretzky and Connor McDavid are two of the greatest players to wear an Edmonton Oilers jersey. Both dominated their respective eras, setting records and dazzling fans with their skill. However, their careers differ in many ways, from their statistical outputs to team achievements. This post breaks down their first nine seasons with the Oilers, highlighting their similarities and differences. Gretzky played nine seasons in total with the Oilers; McDavid has finished nine seasons and is currently in his tenth.

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Team Success: Gretzky’s Dynasty vs. McDavid’s Challenges

One of the starkest contrasts between Gretzky and McDavid lies in team success. Gretzky’s Oilers were a dynasty, winning four Stanley Cups during his nine seasons. McDavid’s Oilers, despite his brilliance, have yet to win a championship. Last season, they fell short by a single game in the playoffs.

Regular-Season Dominance

Key Stats Comparison

Player	Games Played	Goals	Assists	Points	Points/Game (P/G)
Wayne Gretzky	696	583	1,086	1,669	2.40
Connor McDavid	647	365	626	991	1.53

Gretzky’s 2.40 points per game stand unmatched in NHL history, while McDavid’s 1.53 P/G is the highest in today’s NHL. Although McDavid trails Gretzky in raw totals, it’s worth noting the significant differences in scoring environments between the 1980s and today.

Playoff Performance

Playoff Stats Comparison

Player	Games Played	Goals	Assists	Points	Points/Game (P/G)
Wayne Gretzky	120	69	129	198	1.65
Connor McDavid	74	40	81	121	1.64

Both players maintained similar scoring rates in the playoffs. Gretzky’s numbers contributed directly to the Oilers’ championship runs, while McDavid’s playoff dominance hasn’t yet led to a Stanley Cup victory.

Awards and Accolades

Major Trophies Won

Award	Wayne Gretzky	Connor McDavid
Hart Trophy (MVP)	7	4
Art Ross Trophy (Scoring Leader)	8	6
Stanley Cups	4	0

Gretzky’s trophy cabinet includes a staggering number of awards, including seven Hart Trophies. McDavid, while immensely decorated, is still chasing his first Stanley Cup.

Gretzky and McDavid Played in Different Eras with Different Challenges

Gretzky played in an era where scoring was at an all-time high, with offensive play dominating the NHL. McDavid competes in a defensively-focused modern game, facing tighter checking, advanced goaltending techniques, and systems designed to neutralize star players. Despite this, McDavid’s accomplishments in this environment are extraordinary.

Wayne Gretzky and Connor McDavid are generational talents whose careers highlight the importance of context in NHL history. Gretzky’s era allowed him to establish records that seem untouchable, while McDavid’s dominance in the modern NHL is just as impressive, albeit in different ways. The debate over their greatness will continue. However, one thing is clear: both players have left an indelible mark on the Edmonton Oilers and the game of hockey.

Related: Paul Coffey’s Stanley Cup Prediction Could Ignite Oilers’ Season