Mark Messier

Mark Messier
Name	Mark Messier
Caption	Messier in 2009
Birth date	18 January 1961
Birth place	Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
Weight lb	210
Position	Centre
Played for	Indianapolis Racers, Cincinnati Stingers, Edmonton Oilers, New York Rangers, Vancouver Canucks
Draft	48th overall
Draft year	1979
Draft team	Edmonton Oilers
Career start	1978
Career end	2004

Mark Messier is a Canadian former professional ice hockey player and one of the most accomplished figures in the history of the NHL. Renowned for his exceptional leadership and clutch performances, he is the only player to have captained two different franchises to Stanley Cup championships. His 25-season career, marked by six Stanley Cup wins and numerous individual awards, cemented his status as one of the sport's all-time greats, leading to his induction into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 2007.

Early life and junior career

Born in Edmonton, Alberta, Messier was introduced to hockey by his father, Doug Messier, who had played professionally. He honed his skills in the AJHL with the St. Albert Saints before moving to the major junior ranks. Messier played for the Portland Winter Hawks of the WHL during the 1977–78 season, where his combination of skill and physicality began to draw significant attention from professional scouts. His junior performance led to his selection by the Edmonton Oilers in the third round, 48th overall, of the 1979 NHL Entry Draft.

NHL career

Messier began his professional career with the WHA's Indianapolis Racers and Cincinnati Stingers before joining the Edmonton Oilers upon their merger into the NHL in 1979. Alongside Wayne Gretzky, Jari Kurri, and Glenn Anderson, he formed the core of the Oilers' dynasty, winning five Stanley Cup championships between 1984 and 1990. After Gretzky's trade to the Los Angeles Kings, he assumed the team's captaincy and led them to a fifth title in 1990, winning the Hart Memorial Trophy as league MVP. In a blockbuster 1991 trade, he was sent to the New York Rangers, where he famously guaranteed and delivered a victory in Game 7 of the 1994 Eastern Conference Finals against the New Jersey Devils, ultimately captaining the Rangers to their first Stanley Cup in 54 years. He later played for the Vancouver Canucks before returning to the Rangers to conclude his career in 2004. He retired as the second-leading point scorer in NHL history behind only Gretzky.

International play

Messier represented Canada on numerous international stages, contributing to several historic victories. He played in the 1984 Canada Cup, 1987 Canada Cup, and 1991 Canada Cup, with the 1987 and 1991 tournaments resulting in championship wins for Team Canada. He also participated in the 1996 World Cup of Hockey and, at age 41, was selected to play for Canada at the 2002 Winter Olympics in Salt Lake City, where he won a gold medal. His international career showcased his versatility and competitive drive on a global stage, adding to his legendary resume.

Playing style and legacy

Messier was celebrated for a unique blend of formidable physical strength, elite skill, and unparalleled leadership, earning him the nickname "The Moose." He was a dominant two-way centre capable of controlling play in all zones, with a powerful shot and a relentless forechecking style. His legacy is defined by his leadership and intangibles; he is one of only two players to have won the Hart Memorial Trophy with two different teams and received the Lester B. Pearson Award in 1990. The NHL later created the Mark Messier Leadership Award to annually honor the player who exemplifies great leadership qualities. His #11 jersey was retired by both the Edmonton Oilers and the New York Rangers.

Post-playing career

Following his retirement, Messier remained involved in hockey in various capacities. He served as a special assistant to the president and general manager of the New York Rangers for several years, involved in player development and front-office advisory roles. He has also been active in broadcasting, providing analysis for Hockey Night in Canada and other networks. Beyond the rink, he has engaged in numerous business ventures and charitable work, including his involvement with the Tomorrow's Children's Fund. His enduring impact on the game was formally recognized with his induction into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 2007.

Personal life

Messier has maintained a relatively private personal life. He is the father of four children. His son, Lyon Messier, played collegiate hockey at Shattuck-Saint Mary's and in the USHL. Messier has been involved in several philanthropic efforts over the years and is known for his passion for golf. He splits his time between New York City and Greenwich, Connecticut.

Category:Canadian ice hockey players Category:Edmonton Oilers players Category:New York Rangers players Category:Hockey Hall of Fame inductees