Gretzky has a moment with McDavid, then makes shocking Stanley Cup prediction

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Liam McCormick
June 3, 2024 (2:33 PM)

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Last night, the Edmonton Oilers clinched their berth to the Stanley Cup Final for the first time in the McDavid era. Oilers legend Wayne Gretzky covered it on television, and had a short personal moment with McDavid.

»I just wanted to say congratulations. I know how tough it is and how much you've gone through, so I'm wishing all the best of luck in the Stanley Cup Final.»
- Wayne Gretzky to Connor McDavid

From one Oilers franchise legend to another, Gretzky can relate to McDavid in a way that few others can. McDavid acknowledged the weight of that vote of confidence coming from the Great One, and it was a great moment to witness on television.

Shortly after however, it came time for the NHL on TNT panel to make their predictions for the Stanley Cup Final champion. Every host on the panel, including Wayne Gretzky, picked the Florida Panthers to win. Anson Carter and Henrik Lundqvist even said Florida would win easily.

»My problem is two things. I live in Florida, so I admire what the Panthers have done, and I respect their players, their coaching staff, the owner is a friend of mine. . . But I don't even have to say who I'm pulling for. Everybody knows. I get free tickets from Vinny so I can't even say it.»
- Wayne Gretzky

Gretzky's prediction seems to be officially the Florida Panthers, but his heart seems to be with the Edmonton Oilers. On the other hand, it's shocking to hear every other panelist say that the Panthers will easily handle the Oilers in the Final.

Only time will tell, but the Oilers feel like a completely different team on this year's playoff run. The team is playing the most unified yet hockey under Kris Knoblauch, and the superstars have matured into veteran playoff performers. As long as it all holds up, the Oilers will certainly be able to handle the Panthers.

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