Wayne Gretzky and Connor McDavid, two past and present legends in the world of hockey, sat down to have what can only be described as an epic conversation. The Edmonton Oilers superstar and The Great One have wide ranging talk that covers everything from the first time they met, what playing for the Oilers if like, their lives off the ice, their biggest regrets and much more.

Wayne Gretzky and Connor McDavid, two past and present legends in the world of hockey, sat down to have what can only be described as an epic conversation. The Edmonton Oilers superstar and The Great One have wide ranging talk that covers everything from the first time they met, what playing for the Oilers if like, their lives off the ice, their biggest regrets and much more.

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Interview with Wayne Gretzky and Connor McDavid: Reflections on Hockey, Edmonton, and Legacy

Interviewer: Being hockey players in Canada, are you able to go out in the streets in Edmonton often?

Wayne Gretzky: (laughing) Him? He can’t go anywhere.

Connor McDavid: (laughing) Yeah, it’s true. You haven’t been to Edmonton, obviously. It’s all about hockey, church, and the Oilers.

Wayne Gretzky: (chuckles) That’s right. Edmonton is a special place, and when you’re a prominent player there, it’s hard to go unnoticed.

Interviewer: Let’s talk about the first time you two met. Do you remember it?

Connor McDavid: (laughing) I don’t remember it clearly. I do recall that I was 16, playing junior hockey in Erie. Wayne called me to congratulate me on breaking a record or doing something special, which seemed to happen every night. I was with my friends at a movie, and when Wayne called, I was like, “Oh my God, it’s Wayne Gretzky!”

Wayne Gretzky: (laughing) I think the first time we actually met was after the draft, when you were selected by Edmonton. It was a memorable night when they closed the arena in Edmonton.

Connor McDavid:Yeah, that was a special night. Getting drafted by Edmonton, given the team’s history and Wayne’s legacy, was a big moment for me.

Wayne Gretzky:It’s funny how things work out. I remember the draft lottery and seeing Edmonton as a potential destination. With the history of Edmonton and the great players who came before us, it was special to be part of that.

Connor McDavid:The pressure was immense from a young age, and I felt it. It’s a different kind of pressure than what you experienced, Wayne. I was always under the microscope, starting from when I was eight or nine years old, with everyone expecting me to be a top pick.

Wayne Gretzky: The pressure you faced was intense, but you handled it well. My experience was different; I had doubters along the way who motivated me. Your journey has been remarkable, and you’ve lived up to every expectation.

Connor McDavid:I appreciate that. The expectations are a lot to handle, but it drives me. Winning the Stanley Cup is the ultimate goal, and experiencing that would be incredible.

Wayne Gretzky: Winning in Edmonton is unique. The fans are so dedicated and loyal. When you win, you see the same faces in the stands every night, and they share in the excitement. It’s different from larger cities where fans might not be as invested.

Connor McDavid: I look forward to that experience. It’s all about winning and making the fans proud.

Wayne Gretzky:And remember, when you do win, cherish it. It’s a feeling you can’t describe, and it’s worth all the hard work.

Interviewer: What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received, Wayne?

Wayne Gretzky: Meeting Gordie Howe was a highlight. He taught me that you can always learn something new every day, no matter how experienced you are. That advice stayed with me throughout my career.

Connor McDavid: That’s great advice. For me, my first game against Sidney Crosby was a memorable moment. The excitement of playing against him was incredible.

Wayne Gretzky: It’s amazing how quickly things change. You look across the ice at players you admired, and suddenly, you’re one of them. The pressure is real, but it’s part of the game.

Interviewer: How do you feel about the rivalry between Edmonton and Calgary?

Wayne Gretzky:The rivalry is intense and unique. The fans make it special. When I was traded to L.A., it was like I had never been in Edmonton. The rivalry is something you can’t fully appreciate unless you experience it

Wayne Gretzky:It’s the same for me. I was taught that if fans are booing you, it means they respect you. Today’s game is different, but the passion remains.

Interviewer: What about your favorite places to play or vacation?

Wayne Gretzky: I loved playing in Maple Leaf Gardens and Madison Square Garden. Each arena had its own charm. For vacation, I enjoy going to the Bahamas.

Connor McDavid: I like going to L.A. for its quiet and beautiful setting. It’s a great place to relax.

Interviewer: Looking ahead, do you have any thoughts on coaching after your playing career?

Connor McDavid: (laughing) Not right now. I’m focused on playing and will think about coaching when the time comes.

Interviewer:How does playing for Canada feel?

Connor McDavid: It’s an honor. Even playing in the World Juniors or World Championships, wearing the Canadian logo is special.

Wayne Gretzky: Playing in the Olympics was an incredible experience. The camaraderie and the chance to interact with other athletes was memorable.

Interviewer: How about the rivalry with the USA?

Wayne Gretzky: In my era, it wasn’t as intense because I was friends with many American players. But the rivalry has grown, and the U.S. has become a top competitor.

Connor McDavid: The rivalry is significant, and the U.S. team is very strong. It adds to the excitement of international play.

Interviewer:Finally, how does it feel to be so recognized in Edmonton?

Wayne Gretzky: It’s part of the experience. I get recognized often, and it’s a testament to the connection I’ve had with the fans.

Connor McDavid: I get recognized a lot too. It’s part of the job, and I appreciate the support from the fans.

Wayne Gretzky: It’s amazing how much the game means to people in Edmonton. The stories and memories fans share are special.

Connor McDavid: Definitely. It’s all part of the journey, and I’m grateful for the experiences.

The conversation between Wayne Gretzky and Connor McDavid highlights not only their shared love for hockey but also the unique experiences and pressures they have faced in their careers. From the intense rivalries to the joy of winning and the respect of their peers, their stories offer a glimpse into the world of professional hockey and the enduring passion it inspires.