Hall of Famer Wayne Gretzky announced his resignation from the Edmonton Oilers’ front office Tuesday and is reportedly joining TNT as a hockey analyst beginning next season.
Gretzky joined the Oilers as vice chairman in 2016. His resignation is effective immediately.
“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 said in a statement released on Twitter. “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.”
The announcement comes the day after the Oilers were swept out of the Stanley Cup playoffs by the Winnipeg Jets.
Separately, the New York Post reported that Gretzky had agreed on a deal worth around $3 million per season with TNT to become the network’s lead analyst beginning next season. Charles Barkley, a friend of Gretzky’s, heavily recruited The Great One.
ESPN was also trying to land Gretzky, per the Post.
ESPN and TNT are taking over NHL coverage in 2021-22.
Gretzky, 60, won four Stanley Cups with Edmonton from 1978-88. His brother, Keith Gretzky, is the Oilers’ assistant general manager.
Wayne Gretzky is the NHL’s all-time leader in points (2,857), goals (894) and assists (1,963).
–Field Level Media