“Would Be a Sitting Duck”: Wayne Gretzky Considered Moving to Scandinavia Once After an Infamous Rule Barred Him to Play in the NHL

While many fans know about Wayne Gretzky playing in the World Junior Championships, not many know about his tough decisions. In 1978, Gretzky disclosed a tricky NHL rule at that time which would have prevented him from being drafted. The NHL drafts young hockey players every year, who are chosen to play in professional leagues if they fulfill all the criteria. As per the drafting rule at that time, a player had to be 20 years old to be considered for drafting.

Gretzky, who was 16 at that time, realized that this rule could drastically affect his future in the sport. It was then while playing junior hockey leagues that he seriously contemplated moving to Scandinavia.  But was that his only option? What loophole did Gretky pry out to keep living his dream? Let’s dig in.

The NHL rule and Wayne Gretzky’s admissions about his initial desire to move to Scandinavia

 ‘The Great One’ explained his opinion on playing junior hockey games for more years till he became eligible.  ‘At the moment, I would consider it very unlikely that I play four more years of junior hockey before turning pro”, he admitted. 

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He elaborated that after going to Scandinavia, he would gain valuable experience by playing in important hockey leagues. His perspective was that on becoming eligible for drafting in the States, he could easily return. However, Gretzky had a second option. The alternative was to sign up to be a part of the WHA. The World Hockey Association (WHA) was a hockey league at that time which allowed amateur players to compete with professionals and learn. Consequently, Gretzky chose this second option. The rest, is history.

Wayne Gretzky discloses his favorite hockey game in his NHL career

‘“The best NHL game I played in my mind. I think game seven in Toronto”, Gretzky disclosed in a 2020 interview. The Great One then narrated an interesting conversation he had with the guard in the hotel’s elevator. While the guard thought that the opposing team would win and he’d have difficulty controlling the crowd, Gretzky assured him that it would not happen. True to his word, Gretzky won the game for the Los Angeles Kings and played in the Stanley Cup finals. 

The Great One’s statements reflect his deep passion to play professional hockey with the best players. As hockey fans, we understand his perspective and hope to learn more about his journey. What do you think of Gretzky’s choice of not going to Scandinavia? Let us know in the comments below. 

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