Wayne Gretzky's going to need a parking spot.
No. 99 returned to Edmonton on Wednesday, when he was named partner and vice-chairman of the Oilers Entertainment Group. And while his day-to-day role has yet to be determined, his job will be far from ceremonial.
According to TSN's Frank Seravalli, "Gretzky's voice will be heard in hockey-related discussions, serving as a sounding board in addition to serving in a variety of community roles."
For Gretzky, it was about timing. He said he's had opportunities to get back into the game after his coaching tenure in Arizona ended in 2009, but was waiting for the right one.
"We felt like this was a really great opportunity for me to get back in the game and do what we all want to do: win a Stanley Cup," Gretzky said. "I’m privileged and proud to be back as an Oiler."
While he was named partner, Gretzky will not have a financial stake in the Oilers, and both he and owner Daryl Katz made a point to remind everyone of who runs the Oilers hockey team: president and general manager Peter Chiarelli.
"This is Peter's team," Gretzky said. "You’re not going to see me calling teams (for trades). That’s for Peter to do."
Gretzky added that he's "thrilled to be back," and is looking forward to being part of an Oilers team on the rise.
