Wayne Gretzky has another reason to keep an eye on the NHL record book. Edmonton Oilers superstar Connor McDavid is off to a historic start this season. His scoring pace could put several of the league legend's long-standing records within reach, prompting Gretzky to share his thoughts on McDavid's historic scoring pace and record chase.
Gretzky shared his reaction Friday in Toronto, saying, “It's incredible.” He praised McDavid's impact on Edmonton and the sport. He also highlighted the captain's determination to bring a Stanley Cup back to the city. “What he's doing for his hockey team and for the game and for the city of Edmonton, it's unmatched right now,” Gretzky said, as reported by Chris Johnston of The Athletic.
Through Edmonton's first 17 games, McDavid has recorded at least one point in every outing. He leads the team with 44 points and 34 assists. His current production puts him on pace for 217 points, which would surpass Gretzky's NHL record of 215 points set in 1985-86.
McDavid has also recorded five four-point games in just 17 appearances. Mario Lemieux was the last player to reach that mark so quickly, doing so during the 1995-96 season.
Gretzky also believes McDavid has a chance to challenge his famous 51-game point streak from the 1983-84 season.
Article Continues Below“If anybody can do it, it's him, right?” Gretzky said.
Maintaining that level for 51 consecutive games remains a difficult challenge. However, McDavid's incredible start has given hockey fans another reason to watch history unfold. His ultimate goal, though, remains bringing the Stanley Cup back to Edmonton.