"It's time for me to step aside" - When Wayne Gretzky addressed his NHL future with a statement to Coyotes fans

By Ankit Kumar

Modified Dec 17, 2024 15:29 GMT

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In September 2009, Wayne Gretzky announced he was stepping down as head coach of the Phoenix Coyotes. His time with the team had been difficult due to financial and ownership issues. The team was struggling, and Gretzky made a statement to fans about his departure.

His decision was expected. The Coyotes were facing legal and financial problems. Canadian billionaire Jim Balsillie was trying to buy the team in bankruptcy court. This caused uncertainty, and Gretzky confirmed his departure on his website.

"This was a difficult decision that I've thought long and hard about," Gretzky said on September 24, 2009. "We all hoped there would be a resolution earlier this month to the Coyotes ownership situation, but the decision is taking longer than expected."

The uncertain future of the team affected Gretzky’s role.

"Since both remaining bidders have made it clear that I don't fit into their future plans, I approached general manager Don Maloney and suggested he begin looking for someone to replace me as coach. Don has worked hard and explored many options. I think he has made an excellent choice, and so now it's time for me to step aside." he said.

Dave Tippett, the former Dallas Stars coach, succeeded Gretzky as Coyotes coach. Tippett coached the Coyotes from 2009 to 2017 and won the Jack Adams Award in 2010.

Wayne Gretzky coached the Coyotes from 2005 to 2009. The team had a record of 143-161-24 and did not make the playoffs. He also owned a small stake in the franchise.

Alex Ovechkin is closing in on goal record and Bettman and Wayne Gretzky plan to follow

Alex Ovechkin is closing in on Wayne Gretzky’s 894-goal record, with 868 goals to his name. Ovechkin led the league with 15 goals in 18 games before his left fibula fracture on Nov. 18. He is expected to surpass Gretzky’s record once he returns. Ovechkin was on pace to break the record by March before the injury.

When Ovechkin resumes playing, he will continue pursuing 895 goals. Once he is within five goals of the record, NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman and Wayne Gretzky plan to follow his games.

"Alex was on a tear and got hurt, unfortunately. And he had a bunch of multi-goal games. I think when we get down to five, certainly no less than four, I’ve got to start following him around, and The Great One is going to be doing that as well," Bettman said per Russian Machine Never Breaks.

Ovechkin may need some time to regain his form once he returns. But despite this, it seems only a matter of time before he breaks the record.