The Edmonton Oilers have been blessed with some of the most talented players to ever lace up a pair of skates. From the legendary Wayne Gretzky to the electrifying Jari Kurri, the Oilers’ record books are filled with hockey royalty. But on Wednesday night, a new king was crowned, as Connor McDavid officially passed Kurri for second all-time in franchise scoring.
A Milestone Moment
McDavid’s historic night came in a 5-3 win over the Minnesota Wild, where he notched two goals and an assist to bring his career point total to 1,044 – one more than Kurri’s 1,043. It was a fitting performance for a player who has consistently dazzled fans and dominated opponents since entering the league in 2015.
Quite a remarkable feat. For him to go up the scoring list as quickly as he has, and within an organization that has had so many significant players. I’ve seen so many remarkable things from him.
– Oilers coach Kris Knoblauch
McDavid’s Meteoric Rise
Since being drafted first overall by the Oilers in 2015, McDavid has taken the NHL by storm. He won the Art Ross Trophy as the league’s leading scorer in just his second season, and has gone on to capture it five times in his first eight years. His combination of speed, skill, and vision is unmatched, making him a nightmare for opposing defenses.
But McDavid’s impact goes beyond just putting up gaudy point totals. He has transformed the Oilers into perennial contenders, leading them to the playoffs in each of the last five seasons. His leadership and competitiveness have set the standard in the Edmonton locker room, elevating the play of his teammates.
- 3x Hart Trophy winner as NHL MVP
- 5x Art Ross Trophy winner as scoring champion
- Fastest to 1,000 points among active players
Chasing Gretzky’s Ghost
As impressive as McDavid’s accomplishments are, he still has a long way to go to catch Gretzky in the Oilers’ record books. The Great One amassed a staggering 1,669 points in just 9 seasons with Edmonton, setting a standard that may never be matched.
But if anyone is capable of making a run at Gretzky’s records, it’s McDavid. At just 26 years old, he is already more than halfway to Gretzky’s franchise mark. If he continues at his current pace, he could eclipse the all-time NHL points record sometime in his mid-30s.
| Player | Points as Oiler | Games Played |
| Wayne Gretzky | 1,669 | 696 |
| Connor McDavid | 1,044 | 530* |
| Jari Kurri | 1,043 | 754 |
Building a Legacy
Regardless of whether McDavid can catch Gretzky, his place among the Oilers’ greats is secure. He has already led Edmonton to a Stanley Cup championship in 2022, and has them poised for a dynastic run in the coming years.
More than just the points and accolades, it’s the way McDavid plays the game that sets him apart. His effortless stride, his uncanny ability to find open teammates, his clutch performances in key moments – they have made him appointment viewing for hockey fans around the world.
I wouldn’t be surprised anymore just because he surprises you so often over these years, but it’s a nice feat for him and the guys are very proud of him.
– Coach Kris Knoblauch
As the Oilers continue their march towards another championship, McDavid will undoubtedly rack up more milestones and records. But Wednesday’s feat will always hold a special place, as the night he took his rightful place among the franchise’s all-time greats.
Long live the king.
