Hockey legend Wayne Gretzky had an illustrious career. The 61-year-old has played for four teams over his 20-year career. Of course, the transition that comes with changing teams is difficult for players to get used to. In the past, players like Tom Brady and LeBron James have played for multiple teams. They showed great sportsmanship in settling with new groups of players and winning titles as a team. In an interview in 2021, Gretzky appreciated Tom Brady and LeBron for being able to change their teams without hampering their performance.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
According to Gretzky, adjusting to new teams is a challenging process. He mentioned LeBron and Tom Brady while talking about the latter’s greatness as a player.
Wayne Gretzky described the unique feeling of changing teams
In 2021, NFL legend Tom Brady was speculated to win his seventh ring in Super Bowl. Currently, playing for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers as a quarterback, Tom played the first 20 seasons of his career with the New England Patriots. He was the central contributor to the team’s success from 2001 to 2019.
As Tom was about to win his seventh ring, Gretzky was asked about the greatness of Tom in an interview.
Gretzky gave a wholesome answer to this question. He stressed the fact that players like Brady and NBA legend LeBron have faced tough times while changing teams. Being a player who changed teams four times, Gretzky understood the courage it takes. Gretzky appreciated Tom’s courage to transfer to the Buccaneers after building his legendary career with the New England Patriots. Mentioning Brady’s beautiful journey, Gretzky said, “What he was able to accomplish, I don’t even think you can put into words. It’s probably similar to what LeBron did going from Cleveland to Miami back to Cleveland to the Lakers and still being successful. That’s very, very difficult for any athlete to do.”
The retired hockey player has great respect for players who are brave enough to step out of their comfort zone. He himself had faced many challenges while doing so.
Teams that Gretzky played for in his storied career
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Throughout his 20-year career, he played with four teams. Gretzky had a glorious run while playing with his first team Edmonton Oilers for nine years (1978-1988). Later, he joined the Los Angeles Kings, where he played for eight years (1988-1996). Moreover, Gretzky’s shift to Kings became the biggest controversial trade in 1988.
Soon he changed to St. Louis Blues (1996) playing with them for a year. When Gretzky announced his retirement, he was associated with his fourth team, New York Rangers (1996 to 1999).
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Watch This Story: The Great One: What Is Wayne Gretzky’s Golf Handicap
Although the hockey player must have faced a series of challenges, he kept his head and retained his stardom as arguably the greatest hockey player ever.