The 50 Greatest Oilers of All Time
This page is owned and created by Mike Belecky.
#1. Wayne Gretzky
Games-696
Stats-583-1086-1669(2.40)
99 is not only the greatest player to play for the Oilers franchise, he is also the best player to ever lace up hockey skates. This fact was made official when he was voted as the top player in NHL history by 50 panelists who have made hockey their life’s work. He has single handedly shattered the record book, owning or sharing 61 league records. He spent his greatest days in Edmonton though, setting over 40 of those records while wearing an Oilers jersey. He was awarded the NHL's MVP award 8 out of the 9 seasons he played in the Albertain capital, only losing to Lemieux in '88 mainly due to his first lengthy injury. He broke the standard for goals, assists, and points more than once while he was here. In the end 92 goals(1982), 163 assists(1986), 215 points(1986), 47 playoff points(1985), and 100 total points-season & playoffs(1984), are his most notable statistics. Some other amazing memories he left the city of Edmonton include: -the signing of a 21 year contract on his 18th birthday after a WHA hockey game -becoming the youngest player to ever capture the Hart Trophy in 1980. -His domination of Montreal in the Oilers first and only series with the Habs in 1981. -50 goals in 39 games(capped by a 5 goal outing against visiting Phily in '82). -His 77th goal in Buffalo that same year, breaking Espisito's goal record. -4 goals in the 3rd period of the 1983 All Star game. -One of his 5 goal games, this one in St.Louis in which Wayne scored a goal from each of the two face off circles...On Face-offs!! -His three 7 assist games(the last in '86 vs. the Nordiques. -The infamous New Jersey Mickey Mouse comment(note-the only verbal blunder of his career, but the truth is the truth isn’t it?). -An unbelievable 51 game point streak in '85(one night it was kept alive with only 2 sec. remaining. -His 500th point in Calgary. -Wayne's 1000th point, scored at Northlands against the Canucks. - A +518 rating at retirement(mostly due to days in Edmonton). -His 13 points against the Bruins in the '88 finals, a league record for points in a series(keep in mind the series only lasted 4 games!). -His cup winning goal in his final game with the team. -his humble and caring attitude throughout his storied career. -and most importantly for Oilers fans, the 4 Stanley Cups he led the Oilers to(all of them clinched in the Coliseum). Wayne gave Canada, and the world, a lifetime of memories.
#2. Mark Messier
GP-851
Stats-392-642-1034
Another true hockey legend, ranked as the 12th greatest NHLer by the Hockey News. Many feel he should be higher though, because he is currently fourth in the record books for scoring, while also providing intangibles such as grit and leadership. The product of St. Albert joined the Oilers in their first season of existence, and played a solid role with the team for twelve years. Nicknames the "moose" by his colleagues, Mark's hitting ability(including his dreaded elbows), glare, and fiery competitiveness could instill fear in the average individual. One night before I huge playoff contest he showed up fully dressed in the locker room five hours before game time, and met everyone with a determined glare as they came in. He deservedly captured the Conn Smyth trophy in '84 as playoff MVP. His beautiful end to end goal against the Isles, broke the series open, beginning an offensive slaughter of the older New York squad. Mark's offensive abilities can also be recognized while scrolling over some of his records, such as being second in all-time playoff scoring, and first in playoff shorthanded goals. He also amassed over 1000 points as an Oiler, and 600 career goals. On his 1000th point he gave the puck to Glenn Anderson because it was his 400th goal, also showing how much he cared about his teammates. His leadership potential was fully realized when he captained the team to Lord Stanley’s Cup, only two years after the departure of Gretzky. At one point in the conference finals, he single-handedly won a game against Chicago, just when the team seemed to be down. Another of Mark's great thrills came that year too, as he won the Hart Trophy as the league's outstanding player. Solid offensive, defensive, and physical skills made Messier a true superstar, and a great franchise player.
#3. Paul Coffey
GP-532
Stats-209-460-669(1.26)
Perhaps not the best defenseman of all time, but few will argue that he was the most offensively gifted. This fact is easily backed up when taking a look at the numbers. He has these amazing stats to his credit; most goals, assists, and points by a defenseman, second all time in NHL assists, fifth in playoff point production, a 28 game point streak, and an 8 point game. His smooth, strong skating ability made him a joy to watch, and a benchmark for the skill of skating. Broke Orr's points record for a d-man only a few years into his stay in Edmonton. Despite being acknowledged as the most talented rearguard in the league, he truly became a superstar with his 1984 Canada Cup heroics. As his defensive ability improved, he also found himself the recipient of two Norris Trophies(in 1985, and 1986), and was a major factor in the Oilers 3 cup wins with him headmaning the blue line. He never did see eye to eye with Sather, but in truth he was very underpaid at just over $300,000 annually. His trade to Pittsburgh began the steady flow of marquee players out of the city, but during his time in the city of champions he was a thrill to watch.
#4. Jari Kurri
GP-754
Stats-474-569-1043(1.38)
The soft-spoken sniper, was likely the best pure goal scorer in team history. His ability opened the NHL's eyes into looking into, and possibly investing in European talent. Glen Sather had placed about everybody other than the zamboni driver on Gretzky's right wing, until team scouts discovered the perfect player in Jari Kurri. For someone who only planned on staying in North America for a year, the effect he had on Edmonton hockey was profound. When he finally hung up his skates at the end of a storied career he had established himself as the second highest scoring right-winger (Howe being number 1), and maybe even more importantly he became a legend in his homeland of Finland. Other notable records Jari collected would include most goals in a playoff series(12), and third place in playoff points. With these kind of numbers one usually invisions a one-dimensional offensive threat, but nothing could be farther from the truth. Kurri's name was always associated with hard backchecking, and he was robbed of the Selke Award on a number of occasions. This great defensive play also helped end the stereotype of the European hockey player who is unwilling to work hard(well almost-Don Cherry is still kicking around). His value to Wayne Gretzky can be measured by the fact that something near 65% of Kurri's tally's came on an assist by #99. He played with the team during all 5 cup wins, and shares the record for most goals in a playoff year with 19. He has become an absolute hockey legend in his homeland of Finland. He said good-bye to the Oilers when he signed a contract with Milan of an Italian league in 1990. He finished his career fittingly against the Oilers, playing his last game in the Coliseum, during the '98 playoffs. Jari Kurri was a true class act, on and off the ice.
#5. Grant Fuhr
GP-423
Stats with Oilers-GAA=3.69 SO-9 W-L-T= 226-117-54
The goalie behind the Oilers dynasty. The Spruce Grove native had absolutely no weak spots, and his flexibility allowed him to make saves that had seemed impossible at the time. The Oilers drafted him very high from the Victoria Cougars, but it was essential, for without top-notch goaltending the Oilers might have been forced into installing a tighter defensive system. Possibly one of the greatest rookie seasons of all time was enjoyed by Mr. Fuhr, as he posted amazing numbers in the teams first break out season. After a rocky sophomore year, he bounced back, playing greater than ever, and vaulting himself into the category of an elite goalie. Grant currently sits second in all time playoff wins, dropping his GAA by over half a goal for post season play. At one point he ran up a 23 game unbeaten streak, which I believe to be a record, but correct me if I’m wrong. He also had 36 assists in an Oilers uniform. He was awarded the Vezna in 1988, and will long be remembered for his unbelievable stops, including his lightning fast glove hand. Cocaine and problems in the early 90s, and the emergence of Ranford as an upper echelon netminder, led to the end of his run in Edmonton. Another barrier he broke in his time, was the fact that he was the first black goaltender, to ever play hockey at this level, and the first, and maybe only, black superstar in the National Hockey League.
#6. Kevin Lowe
GP-1030
Stats-74-309-383(0.37)
Was involved in two major team firsts with the Edmonton Oilers NHL franchise. In 1979 he became the teams first ever draft pick, and in that same year he scored the Oilers first ever goal(Fittingly on an assist from his roommate Wayne Gretzky). He will be remembered as the Oilers best stay at home defenseman, mainly because he was incredible smart with the puck, and never made crucial mistakes. Evidence of this can be seen by the fact that he went a year without a goal on hockey's highest scoring team. Lowe was the last of the Boys on the Bus to leave Edmonton, before coming back to close out his career as an Oiler. His media savvy and courtesy has made him well deserving of his new job as an assistant coach with the team. Believe it or not he is also one of only two player from Quebec to make this list.
#7. Doug Weight
GP-307
Stats-79-229-308(1.00)
The key figure in the rebuilding process of the '90s. 104 points in '96 heads his lists of achievements. Led the franchise in scoring five years in a row before his ACL injury this year. Weight is the best play maker the team has seen since #99, and the franchise has shown confidence in his ability when they signed him to a $4.5M deal(the most in team history). His humor has made him a fan favorite in the City of Champions.
#8. Glenn Anderson
GP-845
Stats-417-489-906(1.07)
Perhaps the NHL's ultimate clutch player. Stats that back this up include his 3 playoff OT goals(team high), his major improvement in points/game come post season, and his goal that insured the game 7 cup victory in '87. His hard working game was characterized by the way he crashed the net with reckless abandon
#9. Esa Tikkanen
GP-522
Stats-178-258-436(0.84)
"The Pest" brought a unique, and prominent style of play to the rink every night. The way he shut down the league's top stars, was so amazing he has to be considered one of the most prolific shadowers of his time. He scored the Game 7 OT goal against Calgary in '91 on beautiful shot to end the greatest installment of the Battle of Alberta. A constant source of amusement with his jumbled speech (known as Tikkaninish), Esa recently retired to our city.
#10. Bill Ranford
GP-419
Stats-GAA=3.51 SO=8 W-L-T=163-187-51
Was the spectacular goalie behind great playoff runs in the early 90's. His brilliance earned him a Conn Smyth trophy in the teams last cup year. By far the best Oiler in the non-playoff years, perhaps saving them from a complete breakdown.
#11. Craig Simpson
GP-419
Stats-185-180-365(0.87)
Came to the team as the major aspect of the Coffey trade, and never disappointed the fans. A constant offensive threat and guy who could really bury the puck. Craig is a true class act, and still remains an Oilers fan, doing play by play on CTVSN.
#12. Curtis Joseph
GP-106
Stats-GAA=3.09 SO=6 W-L-T= 47-45-11
It is very unlikely that the team will ever see another netminder as good as Cujo was. He may have become a fan favorite in record time, with spectacular on ice play, and great charity work away from the rink. Solid in every area of his game, including lighting fast lateral movement, Joseph made the Oilers a far better club. He smothered the heavily favored Stars in '97, causing one Dallas writer to entitle his front page article "Game Thief!". Holds the team record for most shutouts in a season, and longest period of time between goals in the playoffs(vs. Avs).
#13. Charlie Huddy
GP-694
Stats-81-287-368(0.53)
One of the key defensemen in teams early days, contributing largely to the first few cups. One of those few guys who could play a superior game in both ends of the rink. In my opinion he was the largest physical presence on the blue line, capable of delivering punishing bodychecks at will.
#14. Ken Linseman
GP-202
Stats-58-120-178(0.88)
Ken "the rat" Linseman is one of those so hard to find character players. He has become somewhat of a legend, recognized for the heart and talent he brought to the teams he played for(note-winning always seemed to follow him). To Edmontonians he will be remembered for scoring the Oilers first cup winning goal.
#15. Steve Smith
GP-385
Stats-46-172-218(0.57)
An ideal d-man, with a lot of skill, and savvy in his own zone. Pucks never seemed to get past him. He will always be remembered for the blunder of '86(shudder), but they may not have been there without him.
#16. Kelly buchberger
GP-661
Stats-72-137-209(0.32)
The Sask. born "Buchy", came to the Oilers to fill the role of inforcer during the '87 finals, but would prove to be far more. The current Captain is also the teams premier penalty killer(he would block a shot with his head if he had to), and usually the hardest working man on the ice.
#17. Boris Mironov
GP-176
Stats-15-59-74(0.42)
In his first couple years with the Oil, Rod Philips had the saying "Bone Head Play", associated with his name, but he developed into a great player. I still believe he doesn’t know how much talent he has. Led the blue line in scoring for many years before his trade, and had superb '97 and '98 outings. "BoBo" had a great sense of humor and left fans with many memories including the time he crushes Gagner at center ice, and his many end to end goals. He is bound to win a Norris someday.
#18. Jason Arnott
GP-251
Stats-95-126-221(0.88)
Arnott's first year was nothing short of amazing, leaving him second in rookie voting behind Brodeur. #7 buried 33 goals in that season, on a very weak team. He was a true power forward, but a steadily declining point total and a number of lackluster efforts turned the fans against him, making his departure a sure thing.
#19. Lee Foglin
GP-586
Stats-36-124-168(0.29)
One of those Old School players who taught the young Oilers what it took to become winners. Second ever Oilers Captain.
#20. Dave Lumly
GP-386
Stats-90-140-230(0.60)
A checking forward who also had some amazing scoring streaks. He played on Gretzky's line for while too, which also helped.
#21. Joe Murphy
GP-222
Stats-69-100-169(0.76)
The best player on the very efficient Kid Line(with Graves and Gelinas). Somewhat underachieved but showed up in the big games.
#22. Blair MacDonald
GP-131
Stats-65-72-137(1.05)
Voted Oilers MVP in 1979-80. Also one of Gretz's original linemates.
#23.Randy Gregg
GP-453
Stats-40-148-188(0.41)
The only practicing doctor to wear the blue and orange. Made the teams defense that much more formidable.
#24. Craig McTavish
GP-701
Stats-155-176-331(0.47)
Was the Oilers fifth ever captain. Consistently led by example. For trivia purposes he was the last helmetless player in the NHL.
#25. Vincent Damphousse
GP-80
Stats-38-51-89(1.11)
Had a terrific year in his short stay in Edmonton.
#26. Jimmy Carson
GP-84
Stats-50-53-103(1.23)
Despite his talent he was very unpopular here, because he was associated with the Gretzky trade. Sather made his best trade ever though, when he dealt the injured star(knee) to the Wings in 1990.
#27. Dave Semenko
GP-454
Stats-59-77-136(0.30)
Made sure nobody took liberties with #99. Great fighter. Dave also scored the last ever goal in the WHA.
#28. Bill Guerin
GP-
Stats-
A great addition to the Oilers top line. Made Roy look like a fool in '98, and had his first 30 goal season last year.
#29. Mike Krusalniski
GP-290
Stats-95-133-228(0.80)
A perfect fit in the teams high tempo, run and gun system. Eliminated Flames as a member of the Kings(wasn't that sweet).
#30. Ryan Smyth
GP-133
Stats-41-31-72(0.54)
The Banff native, along with the team, had a break through '97 season. Had 39 goals(19 of them on the PP, tying a club record). Plants himself in front of the opponents net, and is almost unmovable.
#31. Bret Callighen
GP-160
Stats-56-89-145(0.91)
Yet another offensive threat on those mid-80's Oiler teams.
#32. Dave Hunter
GP-653
Stats-119-171-290(0.44)
Long time Oiler also one of the toughest in their 20 year history.
#33. Andy Moog
GP-235
Stats-GAA=3.16 SO=2 W-L-T=143-53-21
Their first solid netminder. Between the pipes for that first cup win.
#34. Roman Hamrlik
GP-
Stats-
Slats robbed Tampa in getting this former #1 draft pick. He is a solid scoring defenseman, and should be a large part of any future success.
#35. Zdeno Cigar
GP-204
Stats-64-91-155(0.76)
The small Slovakian was a reliable top line player. Would have made the Oil that much better if he decided to stay.
#36. Pat Huges
GPs-300
Stats-88-83-171(0.57)
Knowledgeable blueliner who could always be counted on.
#37. Jeff Beukeboom
GP-248
Stats-12-57-69(0.27)
Punishing hitter, and one of the great stay at home defenceman.
#38. Bernie Nichols
GP-95
Stats-28-61-89(0.94)
Arriving at the decline of his career, he still nearly managed a point per game.
#39. Luke Richardson
GP-436
Stats-13-65-78(0.18)
#1 draft pick who became a fan favorite with great defensive play. Relied on heavily in the '97 playoffs.
#40. Marty McSorly
GP-160
Stats-22-33-55(0.34)
Gretz's second guard. Involved in many memorable fights.
#41. Shayne Corson
GP-192
Stats-53-84-137(0.71)
Had a lot of potential. Too selfish to really fit in well with teammates.
#42. Mike Greir
GP-
Stats-
Hard working, and scores timely goals.
#43. Kevin McClelland
Games-
Stats-
Potted the 1-0 tally in Oil's first Finals win.
#44. Peter Klima
GP-274
Stats-119-90-209(0.76)
A sniper who was only useful in the oppositions zone.
#45. Risto Siltanen
GP-206
Stats-38-113-151(0.73)
Yet another good forward.
#46. Todd Marchant
GP-208
Stats-46-53-99(0.48)
Blazing speed. Scored game 7 OT winner in Dallas.
#47. Al Hamilton
GP-31
Stats-4-15-19(0.52)
Biggest star on WHA Oilers. First number(3) to be retired.
#48. Bryan Marchment
GP-189
Stats-7-33-40(0.21)
"Mush’s” physical game made opponents fear carrying the puck.
#49. Dean McAmmond
GP-
Stats-
Played well during rebuilding era. Second in team scoring in '98.
#50. Craig Muni
GP-
Stats-
Highlight was that huge OT goal against Winnipeg in 1990.
