Gretzky's hilarious All-Star Game anecdote reveals a lighter side of hockey
During a delightfully entertaining session on the Missing Curfew podcast, hockey legend Wayne Gretzky recounted a humorous episode from the 2017 NHL All-Star Game, offering fans a peek behind the curtains of this star-studded event.
The All-Star weekend, held in the vibrant city of Los Angeles, took an unexpected turn when John Tortorella, the head coach slated for the game, had to step down due to a family emergency. This unexpected twist called for an equally surprising replacement, leading to Wayne Gretzky, the Oilers' legendary captain, being asked to fill in. Gretzky's impromptu coaching stint was filled with memorable moments, particularly involving his former teammate and one of the greatest defensemen, Paul Coffey, alongside the rookie All-Star Justin Faulk.
Seizing an unusual opportunity, Gretzky approached NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman to inquire if he could pick his assistants. Bettman's affirmative allowed Gretzky to bring on board two of his trusted companions, Billy Smith and Paul Coffey, to serve as assistant coaches. This setup led to a series of events that would bring a lighthearted touch to the game.
As the game commenced, Gretzky's team, dubbed the Crosby-Ovechkin team, quickly found themselves trailing by two goals. It was here that Faulk, participating in his first All-Star game, appeared to struggle with the pace and spectacle of the event. Concerned, Gretzky turned to Coffey to gauge Faulk's state of mind, to which Coffey responded by highlighting the defenseman's nervousness due to the grandeur of his first All-Star appearance.
In a playful twist, Coffey approached Faulk and, feigning seriousness, informed him that Gretzky planned to bench him but that he would give him another chance. This jest not only eased Faulk's nerves but also brought about a wave of laughter among the team, showcasing the camaraderie and light-heartedness often found in these high-profile games.
These anecdotes not only highlight the enduring friendship between Gretzky and Coffey but also reflect the deep connections formed through years of teamwork, surviving even as paths diverged with Gretzky's iconic trade to the Los Angeles Kings and Coffey's subsequent tenure with the Pittsburgh Penguins.
Gretzky's story on Missing Curfew is a testament to the enduring spirit of hockey and its ability to bring people together, not just through competition but through shared moments of joy and humor. It is these narratives, passed down through generations and now amplified by social media, that continue to enhance the NHL's legacy and bring fans closer to the legends of the game.
| POLL | ||
Which Oiler from the 1980s dynasty was your fave? | ||
| Mark Messier | 13 | 27.1 % |
| Wayne Gretzky | 25 | 52.1 % |
| Paul Coffey | 5 | 10.4 % |
| Jari Kurri | 5 | 10.4 % |
| List of polls | ||
