Wayne Gretzky Crowns Connor McDavid Hockey’s Best in Stanley Cup Thriller

In a thrilling turn of events on the ice, Edmonton Oilers captain Connor McDavid has been dubbed the heir to hockey royalty by none other than Wayne Gretzky himself. Known as "The Great One," Gretzky didn’t hold back his admiration, declaring McDavid as the best player in the NHL today during a recent appearance on ESPN's popular show. He praised McDavid’s unselfish nature, his passion for Edmonton, and his burning desire to clinch a Stanley Cup—a dream that resonates with every hockey fan.

McDavid’s brilliance was on full display in Game 1 of the Stanley Cup Final rematch against the Florida Panthers. Trailing 3-1, the Oilers staged a jaw-dropping comeback, scoring three unanswered goals to secure a 4-3 overtime victory on home ice. The game-winner came after McDavid’s slick saucer pass to Leon Draisaitl, who slipped the puck past the Panthers’ goaltender. It was a moment of pure magic, the kind that cements a player’s legacy.

Gretzky, now an NHL analyst, even predicted a key play during the game’s intermission, noting how McDavid would need to adapt to the Panthers’ tight defense. Sure enough, McDavid’s strategic play led to a game-tying goal in the third period. Though Gretzky chuckled and called it a lucky guess, his words carried weight: "He’s the best player in the world. He knows what he’s doing."

As a four-time NHL All-Star and five-time Art Ross Trophy winner for leading the league in points, McDavid’s resume speaks for itself. Add to that his unanimous NHL MVP vote—a feat shared only with Gretzky—and it’s clear why the hockey world is buzzing. With Game 2 set for Friday in Edmonton, and the series heading to Florida for Games 3 and 4, all eyes are on McDavid to see if he can lead the Oilers to ultimate glory.