Edmonton Oilers Owner Daryl Katz Makes Surprising Announcement that Oilers Legend Wayne Gretzky Is Returning to the Franchise in 2025 as Side by Side Co-owner..
In what is being hailed as one of the most stunning and emotional announcements in recent NHL history, Edmonton Oilers owner Daryl Katz has revealed that Wayne Gretzky, widely considered the greatest hockey player of all time, will return to the franchise in 2025 — this time not on the ice, but in the owner’s suite. Gretzky is set to become a side-by-side co-owner of the team, solidifying his legacy with the organization that first made him a legend.
The announcement came during a press conference at Rogers Place, where Katz, joined by senior executives from Oilers Entertainment Group (OEG), took to the podium with a tone of excitement and reverence. Flanked by a beaming Wayne Gretzky, Katz addressed a packed room of media, players, and alumni.
“Today is not just a historic day for the Oilers, but for hockey,” Katz said. “Wayne Gretzky is more than a player in this city — he is a symbol of excellence, of heart, and of the spirit that drives this franchise. It is with immense pride that I welcome him back home, this time as co-owner of the Edmonton Oilers.”
The return of “The Great One” marks a full-circle moment for Gretzky, who dominated the NHL in the 1980s with the Oilers, leading the team to four Stanley Cups and setting records that still stand today. His return in a leadership capacity adds another chapter to the legendary bond between Gretzky and the city of Edmonton.
Gretzky, now 64, appeared visibly emotional as he took the stage.
“This city has always been my home, no matter where my career took me,” he said. “The Oilers gave me my first shot, my greatest memories, and my life’s work. Coming back as a co-owner is an opportunity not just to give back, but to help shape the future of a franchise and a city that mean everything to me.”
While the full terms of the partnership were not disclosed, Katz emphasized that the arrangement had been months in the making, built on mutual respect, a shared vision for the future, and Gretzky’s desire to contribute meaningfully to the franchise beyond ceremonial involvement. According to Katz, Gretzky will play an active role in hockey operations, marketing, and community development.
“Wayne isn’t here just for the name,” Katz stated. “He’s here to lead. He’ll be involved in decisions at the highest level, mentoring players, working with management, and helping this team reach the next level — which, we all believe, includes bringing the Stanley Cup back to Edmonton.”
Gretzky’s new role is expected to include collaboration with General Manager Ken Holland, head coach Kris Knoblauch, and other front office personnel. His legendary status, both on and off the ice, could serve as a powerful recruitment tool for free agents and a morale boost for young players growing up idolizing him.
Fan response has been overwhelmingly positive. In downtown Edmonton, spontaneous gatherings broke out as fans waved Oilers flags and chanted Gretzky’s name. Social media erupted with tributes, nostalgia, and excitement for what many are calling “The Return of the King.”
Former teammates and NHL legends also chimed in. Mark Messier, who captained the Oilers to their fifth Stanley Cup in 1990, said, “It’s poetic. Wayne belongs with the Oilers. He built this franchise with his brilliance, and now he gets to help build its future. This is incredible news for the city and the game.”
This move is also seen as a cultural boost for Edmonton — a city that has long cherished its hockey roots and has endured decades of highs and lows since Gretzky’s 1988 trade to Los Angeles. While Gretzky has maintained an ambassadorship with the NHL and appeared on various broadcasts, his return to Edmonton in a formal leadership role gives the team a unique blend of business acumen, hockey knowledge, and unparalleled star power.
Gretzky’s business ventures have expanded in recent years, from beverage companies to real estate, but he has always remained close to the sport. With the NHL landscape evolving and the Oilers poised to make another deep playoff run in 2025, his return seems not only symbolic but strategic.
When asked what his ultimate goal is in this new chapter, Gretzky didn’t hesitate: “It’s simple — I want to help bring another Stanley Cup to Edmonton. That’s the dream. And I believe in this team, this organization, and this city. We’re going to make it happen.”
As the city of Edmonton celebrates and the hockey world watches with anticipation, one thing is clear: the story of Wayne Gretzky and the Edmonton Oilers isn’t over — it’s entering its next great chapter.