BREAKING NEWS: Excitements Hit Rogers Place Stadium as former Edmonton Oilers legend Mark Messier, Returned to his former team as a senior coaching….read more

In an announcement that sent shockwaves through the NHL and brought tears to the eyes of longtime fans, Edmonton Oilers legend Mark Messier has officially rejoined the franchise — this time as a Senior Coaching Advisor.

The stunning reveal came moments before puck drop at Rogers Place, as Messier walked out onto the ice in a suit and tie to a roaring, sold-out crowd. The arena erupted into chants of “Mess! Mess! Mess!” as the 6-time Stanley Cup champion raised his arm in salute.

“I Never Left in Spirit” — Messier’s Emotional Return

Messier, who captained the Oilers to five Stanley Cup titles in the 1980s and became a symbol of toughness, leadership, and Edmonton pride, will now serve in a hands-on role — mentoring players, advising the coaching staff, and helping build a championship-caliber culture once again.

“I never really left,” Messier said during the on-ice ceremony. “This city, this team — it’s in my blood. I’m honored to come back and help lead the Oilers toward another Cup.”

Messier’s Role: Culture Architect, Mentor, and Motivator

According to the team, Messier’s new responsibilities will include:

• Working directly with the leadership group (including Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl) on off-ice development and team cohesion

• Advising head coach Kris Knoblauch on locker room dynamics, playoff preparation, and high-pressure situations

• Mentoring young forwards in developing championship habits

• Serving as an ambassador for Oilers community initiatives and alumni programs

Oilers GM Ken Holland called the hiring “the ultimate culture move.”

“Mark is more than a legend — he’s the blueprint for what it means to be an Oiler. There’s no one better to help guide this team in the next chapter.”

Oilers Stars React: “He’s a living god in Edmonton.”

Current players couldn’t hide their excitement. Captain Connor McDavid, who has long cited Messier as one of his biggest influences, said:

“Having Mark around the locker room… it’s surreal. He’s everything we’re trying to be. It’s an honor.”

Leon Draisaitl added:

“When Messier talks, you listen. He’s done what we’re all trying to do — more than once.”

Return of a Champion: Reigniting the Dynasty Flame

Messier, inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 2007, played 851 games with the Oilers, recording 1,034 points and forever etching his name in franchise lore. His return signals the team’s commitment to its past — and its future.

Fans have already started calling it “The Dynasty Reconnect.”

Edmonton sportswriter Dale Forbes wrote:

“Bringing back Messier isn’t just symbolic — it’s strategic. This team needs leadership to get over the hump, and who better than the man who defined winning?”

Fan Reactions: A City Electrified

Within minutes of the announcement, “#MessierReturns” trended across Canada. Outside Rogers Place, fans gathered wearing throwback jerseys and waving banners that read:

“Welcome Home, Captain!”
“He Built the Dynasty — Now He’ll Finish It!”

Season ticket inquiries skyrocketed, with Oilers merchandise stores seeing a 400% spike in sales of Messier gear overnight.

What’s Next?

With the Oilers entering the 2025-2026 season as heavy contenders, Messier’s return could be the final spark needed to push the team past the playoff ceiling that’s eluded them for years.

“This team is close,” Messier said. “I can feel it. And I’ll do whatever I can to help bring the Cup back to Edmonton.”

One of Hockey’s Greatest Sons Comes Home

As the crowd at Rogers Place gave Messier a standing ovation, the arena lights dimmed and the video board replayed his iconic moments — from bone-crushing hits to Stanley Cup celebrations.

And just before the puck dropped, the final message on screen read:
“Legends Never Leave. Welcome Home, Mark.”