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Wayne Gretzky, believed by many to be the greatest hockey player in history, stepped down as a partner and vice chairman with the Edmonton Oilers on Tuesday after spending five seasons in their front office.
It appears “The Great One” won’t be out of work for long.
Andrew Marchand of the New York Post and Emily Kaplan of ESPN report Gretzky has agreed to become a lead TNT hockey analyst when the NHL officially moves to Turner Sports for the 2021-22 campaign. Marchand adds the 60-year-old will earn approximately $3 million per season from Turner, while both he and Kaplan explained Gretzky was pursued by good friend and “NBA on TNT” personality Charles Barkley.
Both Turner and ESPN signed seven-year deals with the NHL earlier this year. Marchand also reports ESPN was interested in Gretzky but failed to sign him ahead of Tuesday’s developments.
“The Oilers, their fans, and the city of Edmonton have meant the world to me and my family for over four decades — and that will never end,” Gretzky explained in a message he shared via social media. “Given the pandemic and other life changes, I realize I will not be able to dedicate the time nor effort needed to support this world-class organization.
“I want to thank (Oilers owners) Daryl and Renee Katz, their family, and entire team for all the support and friendship these last several years, and wish them nothing but success.”
The Winnipeg Jets completed their sweep of the Oilers in the first-round playoff series Monday night.
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