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Mark John Douglas Messier OC (/ˈmɛsieɪ/; born January 18, 1961) is a Canadian former professional ice hockey forward. His playing career in the National Hockey League (NHL) lasted 25 seasons (1979–2004) with the Edmonton Oilers, New York Rangers, and Vancouver Canucks. He also played professionally with the World Hockey Association (WHA)'s Indianapolis Racers and Cincinnati Stingers. He also played a short four-game stint in the original Central Hockey League (CHL) with the Houston Apollos in 1979.[1] He was the last WHA player to be active in professional ice hockey, and the last active player in any of the major North American professional sports leagues to have played in the 1970s. After his playing career, he was special assistant to the president and general manager of the Rangers.

Key Information

Messier is considered one of the greatest ice hockey players of all time.[2] He is second on the all-time list for playoff points (295) and third for regular season games played (1756) and regular season points (1887). He is a six-time Stanley Cup champion—five with the Oilers and one with the Rangers—and is the only player to captain two teams to Stanley Cup championships.[3] His playoff leadership while in New York, which ended a 54-year Stanley Cup drought in 1994, earned him the nickname "The Messiah", a play on his name. He was also known, throughout his career, as "The Moose" for his aggression and strength.[4][5] He twice won the Hart Memorial Trophy as the league's most valuable player, in 1990 and 1992, and in 1984 won the Conn Smythe Trophy as the most valuable player during the playoffs. He was selected for the NHL All-Star Game 16 times. In 2007, he was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame, in his first year of eligibility. In 2017, Messier was named one of the "100 Greatest NHL Players" in history.[6]

On June 30, 2017, he was named an Officer of the Order of Canada by Governor General David Johnston for "contributions to hockey as an outstanding player and captain, and for his leadership in encouraging children to take up the sport."[7]

Early life

[edit]

Messier was born in St. Albert, Alberta, the son of Mary-Jean (Dea) and Doug Messier. He was the second son and third child of four; his siblings are Paul, Mary-Kay, and Jennifer.[8] The Messier family moved to Portland, Oregon when Mark was young, where Doug played for the Portland Buckaroos of the minor pro Western Hockey League.[9] The family returned to St. Albert in 1969 after Doug retired from hockey.[10] Messier attended St. Francis Xavier High School in Edmonton as he played junior hockey where Doug was his coach and mentor for his early years.

Messier's brother Paul was drafted by the Colorado Rockies 41st overall in the 1978 NHL Amateur Draft, but he only played nine games with the club in 1978–79 before embarking on a long career in the German Eishockey-Bundesliga.[11] Paul helps manage a hotel that Messier owns in Harbour Island, Bahamas.[12] Messier's cousins Mitch and Joby also skated for NHL clubs. Joby was briefly Mark's teammate on the Rangers.

Playing career

[edit]

Early years and WHA

[edit]

In 1976, Messier tried out for the junior Spruce Grove Mets of the Alberta Junior Hockey League (AJHL), where his father, Doug Messier, was coaching. As Messier was only 15 (the age limit was 20), Doug did not expect him to make the team, though he was surprised and was added to the roster.[13] Messier recorded 66 points in 57 games with the Mets in the 1976–77 season. The team, which relocated to St. Albert the following season and was renamed the St. Albert Saints, named Messier captain for 1977–78, and he scored 74 points in 54 games.[14] After the season he joined the Portland Winterhawks of the major junior Western Hockey League (WHL) for the playoffs, appearing in 7 games and scoring 5 points.[15]

Before the start of the 1978–79 season, Messier was looking for alternatives to another season with the Saints, as he felt he was too good for the AJHL.[16] He was not interested in playing in the WHL, so he initially tried out for the Canadian Olympic team, which was preparing for the 1980 Winter Olympics.[17] At the same time, Doug contacted his former junior teammate Pat Stapleton, who was coaching of the Indianapolis Racers of the World Hockey Association (WHA), who needed someone to replace another young player they had just traded, Wayne Gretzky. Doug called him and got Messier a contract to play hockey in Indianapolis for $30,000.[18] However Messier only took a 5-game amateur tryout, as it would allow him to return to junior hockey if need be.[17]

Messier played 13 games with the Saints to start the season, then joined the Racers on November 5 for his professional debut against the Winnipeg Jets. He played four games with the Racers, followed by a further two more with the Saints, before his final game with Indianapolis on November 28.[19] Offered a longer contract, Messier held off on signing it, which proved fortuitous as the team folded on December 15; his only cheque from them bounced. Returning to the Saints, Messier played his final two games of junior hockey for them before he was signed by the Cincinnati Stingers, also of the WHA.[20] Messier signed a contract for $35,000 to play the rest of the season with the Stingers.[21] He scored his first professional goal on March 20, 1979, against Pat Riggin of the Birmingham Bulls.[22] Messier played 47 games for the Stingers, tallying one goal and 10 assists.

Edmonton Oilers (1979–1991)

[edit]

The WHA folded after the conclusion of the 1978–79 season, and four of the six remaining teams were admitted into the NHL; both the Stingers and the Bulls were not included in the merger and instead joined the minor Central Hockey League. The players were dispersed to teams that had already owned their NHL rights, or were allowed to enter the 1979 NHL Entry Draft; being under 20 years old Messier was eligible for the draft, and was selected in the third round, 48th overall, by the Edmonton Oilers.[23] He refused the Oilers' initial contract offers, a four-year two-way contract or one year at $20,000 plus an option for a second year, instead wanting four-years at $50,000 per year, but ultimately signed what the Oilers offered.[24]

During his first year in the NHL, Messier had several discipline issues, and at the end of October, he missed a team flight and was subsequently reassigned to their CHL affiliate, the Houston Apollos, for four games.[25] On returning to Edmonton, Messier moved back in with his parents, living at their St. Albert home.[26]

Messier was a fierce, tough competitor whose intense leadership in the dressing room was as important as the goals he scored on the ice. He was not initially known as a scorer, but his offensive numbers increased steadily over his first few years with the Oilers. In 1981–82, he registered his only 50-goal season. For most of his tenure with the Oilers, he played on a line with Glenn Anderson.

Messier's name engraved on the Stanley Cup, as a part of the 1983–84 Edmonton Oilers.

Initially a left-winger (he was named to the NHL First All-Star Team in 1982–83 on the left wing), Messier switched to centre in the 1984 playoffs, and the results were spectacular. In game 3 of the 1984 Finals, for example, with his Oilers trailing the four-time defending champion New York Islanders by a goal, it was Messier's goal on a brilliant end-to-end rush that sparked a comeback by the Oilers. By the end of the series the Oilers had won their first Stanley Cup and Messier had earned the Conn Smythe Trophy, awarded to the most valuable player of the playoffs.

In 1984, Messier was suspended for ten games for cracking Jamie Macoun's cheekbone with a sucker punch from behind during a game against the Calgary Flames on December 26. Messier was retaliating for having been boarded by Macoun earlier in the game, but the NHL ruled that he had instigated the fight.[27]

On September 6, 1985, Messier lost control of his Porsche and totaled it by hitting three parked cars. He was later charged with hit and run and careless driving, for which he paid a fine.[28]

He won four more Cups with the Oilers, 1985, 1987, 1988, and 1990, for the last of which he captained the Oilers to a five-game victory over the Boston Bruins. Though the Oilers had been a 1980s powerhouse, the 1990 victory, which came two years after Wayne Gretzky was traded away, surprised many. Messier also won the Hart Memorial Trophy as league MVP that season, edging out the Bruins' Ray Bourque by just two votes, the narrowest margin in the award's history.[27]

Though Messier was actually under contract to the Oilers until 1993, his agent and father Doug Messier unsuccessfully pressed Oilers president and general manager Glen Sather for a new deal in the summer of 1990.[28][29] After the 1990–91 season, Messier was upset that the Oilers were willing to let Adam Graves leave the team. Messier issued a public trade demand during the Canada Cup tournament saying that he wanted out if the Oilers were not willing to do what was necessary to keep important players.[30] On October 4, 1991, in one of many cost-cutting moves by Edmonton management, Messier was traded to the New York Rangers for Louie DeBrusk, Bernie Nicholls, and Steven Rice.

New York Rangers (1991–1997)

[edit]

In his first season with the Rangers, Messier won his second Hart Trophy and guided the Rangers to the best record in the NHL. However, they were ousted in six games in the second round of the playoffs by the eventual champions Pittsburgh Penguins.

In 1992–93, the Rangers missed the playoffs, and was the first time in Messier's career that he did not play in the postseason. After the season, Mike Keenan was hired as head coach.

In the 1993–94 NHL season, the Rangers rebounded to once again finish first overall, and this time were expected to win the Cup. After easily ousting the Islanders and Capitals in the first two rounds, the Rangers' road to the Cup would get a lot harder.

Down 3–2 and 2–0 in game 6 of the 1994 Eastern Conference Finals against the rival New Jersey Devils, Messier confronted the New York media and publicly guaranteed a game 6 victory. With fans and players on both sides reading the news headline, it then became a feat comparable to Babe Ruth's called shot and Joe Namath's Super Bowl III guarantee, and he backed it up by scoring a natural hat trick in the third period on an empty net goal with ESPN play-by-play commentator Gary Thorne boasting, "Do you believe it? Do you believe it? He said we will win game six and he has just picked up the hat trick!"[31][32][33] It helped the Rangers erase a 2–0 deficit to win 4–2. The Rangers went on to win the series in a thrilling seventh game double overtime nailbiter.[34][35]

In the Stanley Cup Finals, Messier scored the Stanley Cup-winning goal in game 7 at Madison Square Garden, giving the Rangers their first Stanley Cup in 54 years. He became the first (and to this date, the only) player to captain two teams to the Stanley Cup, something his former teammate Wayne Gretzky could not do the year before, and provided two of the most memorable images of that Stanley Cup Finals. First, when the buzzer sounded he was jumping up and down with overwhelming emotion as ticker tape fell; fireworks burst and fans and teammates celebrated. The other, which would become an iconic image to the Rangers and their fans, taken by George Kalinsky, photographer at Madison Square Garden, showing incredible emotion as he accepted the Stanley Cup from NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman.[36][37][38] Finally, during the ticker-tape parade celebrating the Rangers' win, Rudy Giuliani, witnessing his first New York sports team championship victory just five months after becoming mayor, dubbed Messier "Mr. June," conjuring Reggie Jackson's "Mr. October" nickname.[39]

In 1995–96, Messier came as close as he had since 1991–92 to break the 100-point plateau when, at the age of 35, he recorded a 99-point season. In 1996–97, former Oilers teammate Wayne Gretzky joined the Rangers, while Messier retained the captaincy and had a respectable 84-point regular season. The two led the team to the Eastern Conference Finals, where they were eliminated by the Philadelphia Flyers in five games, as the Rangers could not match the size and strength of Eric Lindros and his "Legion of Doom" linemates. Messier left the club after the season (see below), ending the brief reunion of Messier and Gretzky being together again on the same team after just one season. It would also turn out to be both players' final playoff appearances.

Messier had wanted to finish his career with the Rangers but Dave Checketts, the president of Madison Square Garden, said the team did not think Messier was worth US$20 million for the next three years, though Messier maintained that he would have signed a one-year contract extension for under $6 million per season. Although public sentiment sided with Messier, as he led the team to two first-place regular season finishes and the Stanley Cup, general manager Neil Smith was content having Gretzky and Pat LaFontaine as top centremen, and he came close to landing Joe Sakic from the Colorado Avalanche[40] when he signed him to an offer sheet in the summer of 1997. (The Avalanche matched the offer and Sakic remained in Colorado for the remainder of his career.)

At 36 years old, Messier signed with the Vancouver Canucks to a high-priced free-agent contract. Smith's decision to keep Gretzky and LaFontaine backfired, as LaFontaine would suffer a career-ending concussion during the 1997–98 season and Gretzky would retire after the following season.

Vancouver Canucks (1997–2000)

[edit]

Messier's return to Canada after six years with the Rangers was an emotional and high-profile event, but the bliss was brief. Before the season started, captain Trevor Linden relinquished the captaincy to Messier, a move that did not go over well with Canucks supporters. Amidst a turbulent season, in which president and general manager Pat Quinn and head coach Tom Renney were fired, Linden was eventually traded by new coach and acting general manager Mike Keenan to the New York Islanders, where he became their captain, replacing Bryan McCabe, for whom Linden was traded along with Todd Bertuzzi. Messier's demand to receive the number No. 11, which he had worn throughout his career with the Oilers and Rangers, but which the Canucks had unofficially retired after Wayne Maki's unexpected death in 1974, hurt his image as well.[41] Messier has been said to be "undoubtedly the most hated player in the history of the Canucks".[42]

In Messier's first game back on Broadway, MSG provided a video for him which was displayed on the big screen at the Garden. It was very emotional as some fans as well as Messier himself shed tears. He went on to score a goal in that game against his former team where he received applause after doing so even though he wore a different uniform. One fan displayed a sign that read, "You will always be our captain Mess."

Sixty points in 1997–98 was his worst mark in a full year since his first NHL season; his next two seasons were shortened by injury and finished with 158 points over three years, considered below expectations compared to other star centremen earning around $6 million US a season,[43] like Steve Yzerman and Joe Sakic. Messier was still expected to be named to the Canadian men's hockey team for the 1998 Olympics, in which the NHL allowed its best players to participate for the first time; however, he was surprisingly omitted by general manager Bobby Clarke.[44]

Keenan was fired from his post as Canucks' coach midway in the 1998–99 season, as the club missed the playoffs during Messier's three years. The team did not attempt to re-sign Messier and he became a free agent after the 1999–2000 season.

Return to New York (2000–2004)

[edit]

Meanwhile, back in New York, the Rangers had fired Neil Smith as general manager following three consecutive non-playoff seasons. His successor was Messier's former coach in Edmonton, Glen Sather, who began negotiating with the veteran former team captain and Messier agreed to terms to return to Madison Square Garden for the 2000–01 season. To mark Messier's return to the Rangers, a press conference was called to announce the signing; during the gathering, Messier's successor as captain, Brian Leetch, ceded his position to his returning teammate and, in a conciliatory gesture, a hatchet was buried in the dirt. Messier also went one step further and guaranteed that the Rangers would return to the playoffs.[45]

Messier's 67-point season as a 40-year-old in 2000–01 was a mark better than any he established in his Vancouver years, showing that he could still be a valuable presence, but the Rangers missed the playoffs for the fourth year running. After missing half of 2001–02 due to an arm injury, Messier recorded only 23 points and finished up next year with a 40-point season.

On June 30, 2003, Messier's rights were traded to the San Jose Sharks for a fourth-round draft pick. This draft pick ended up being used to select Rochester, New York native and future Rangers captain Ryan Callahan. The Sharks held his rights for just a few hours as he would eventually go on to re-sign with the Rangers as a free agent.

Messier (left foreground) during his number retirement ceremony with the New York Rangers. The ceremony was held in January 2006, several months after he retired.

On November 4, 2003, against the Dallas Stars, Messier scored a pair of goals to vault past Gordie Howe into second on the all-time point scoring list with 1,851 points, second-most in League history trailing only Wayne Gretzky.[46] Eleven days later, Messier was the only active player to play in the Legends Game at Edmonton's Heritage Classic, suiting up with the Oiler alumni.[47] During his last game at Madison Square Garden (a 4–3 loss to the Buffalo Sabres on March 31, 2004), Messier received applause every time he touched the puck and, after the game, received a standing ovation while he skated around the Garden and bowed to every section of the stands.[48] At the age of 43, most media outlets believed Messier had decided to quit. The NHL lockout eliminated the next season. All speculation ended on September 12, 2005, when he announced his retirement on ESPN radio.[49]

Messier retired eleven games behind Howe's then-NHL record 1,767 regular season games played. Messier holds the record for most NHL regular season and playoff season games played at 1,992. Messier is one of a handful of players to have played 25 NHL seasons.

International career

[edit]

Messier only played with Canada once outside North America, winning the silver medal at the 1989 World Championships in Sweden. He also won three consecutive Canada Cups and played for the Canadian team that finished second at the 1996 World Cup of Hockey, four tournaments which he described as "my real opportunity to play international hockey."[50]

Post-playing career

[edit]
Retirement of Mark Messier, January 12, 2006

On January 12, 2006, during a very emotional ceremony that featured most of the 1994 Stanley Cup team and the Stanley Cup itself, the New York Rangers retired his number 11 in a game against the Edmonton Oilers. During the game, the Rangers defeated the Oilers.[51] His is the 4th number retired by the Rangers. His number was retired by the Edmonton Oilers on February 27, 2007, against the Phoenix Coyotes, then coached by former teammate Wayne Gretzky.[52]

In February 2007, Messier publicly expressed interest in returning to the NHL as general manager for the Rangers; however, the then-current general manager Glen Sather responded by saying he had no plans of stepping down from his position.[53] With the departure of assistant general manager Don Maloney from the Rangers organization in May 2007, Messier's name had been attached to possible replacements;[54] however, in July 2007, Jim Schoenfeld was announced as Maloney's replacement. On November 12, 2007, Messier was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in the players category.

In late 2010, Messier coached Canada during two European tournaments—the Deutschland Cup and the Spengler Cup.[55]

Messier also awards the NHL's Mark Messier Leadership Award, given to a player who exemplified on-ice leadership, and leadership within their communities.

Messier alongside other former Rangers and Philadelphia Flyers during the 2012 NHL Winter Classic alumni game.

Messier also remains active in the City of New York, with Messier playing for the New York Rangers at the 2012 NHL Winter Classic Alumni Game in Philadelphia between the New York Rangers and the Philadelphia Flyers on December 31, 2011. Messier had 1 assist during the game, which was won 3–1 by Philadelphia.[56] Messier also ran in the New York City Marathon on November 6, 2011, finishing with a time of 4:14:21. Messier, alongside Sarah Hughes, is also involved in the construction of the Kingsbridge National Ice Center, a US$250 million,[57] 795,000 square foot redevelopment of the Kingsbridge Armory in the Bronx into a world's-largest indoor ice facility, containing nine ice rinks.[58]

After his retirement, Messier appeared in a Versus television special in the United States highlighting his "Mark Messier Leadership Camp," which allowed New Yorkers to mix seminars in leadership and working with others with hockey games against former Rangers, including a scrimmage at Madison Square Garden. Messier occasionally worked as a studio analyst on NHL on Versus, served as an in-game analyst for The NHL All-Star Game on Versus, and has been a guest commentator on NHL on NBC. In 2014, Messier joined Rogers Communications as a spokesperson and occasional analyst for the company's national NHL coverage. He appeared on various Rogers NHL GameCentre Live advertisements including the Vancouver Canucks-themed ad which drew backlash towards their fanbase. In 2021, Messier signed a deal with ESPN/ABC to lead their new look studio coverage, as ESPN and ABC will air NHL games for the first time in 17 years.

Messier was featured in a Lay's chips campaign that aired in Canada in the late 1990s and early 2000s. The commercials originally featured Messier being challenged to a bet by a local hockey fan, who bets that Messier cannot eat just one potato chip, about the Lay's slogan "bet you can't eat just one." Messier loses the bet, and ends up playing in a local "beer league" hockey game (for a team called "The Pylons"), which he easily dominates. Later variations would have Messier himself making the same bet. He was also featured in Lay's ads in the U.S. where he asked neighbors to borrow ice, sugar, or a hairdryer (playing on his bald head) to get chips.

Personal life

[edit]
Messier in 2009.

Messier's son Lyon was born on August 16, 1987, and is a former defenceman who spent part of two seasons with the South Carolina Stingrays of the ECHL, and both the Charlotte Checkers and New Mexico Scorpions of the Central Hockey League. Messier and his wife Kim have a second son and a daughter.

Messier owns the Runaway Hill Club on the pink sand beach on Harbour Island in the Bahamas.[59]

Messier is an advocate for preventative healthcare[60] and was a spokesperson for Cold-fX.[61]

Career statistics

[edit]

Regular season and playoffs

[edit]
Regular season Playoffs
Season Team League GP G A Pts PIM GP G A Pts PIM
1975–76 Sherwood Spears AMHL 44 82 76 158 38 — — — — —
1976–77 Spruce Grove Mets AJHL 57 27 39 66 91 — — — — —
1977–78 St. Albert Saints AJHL 54 25 49 74 194 — — — — —
1977–78 Portland Winter Hawks WCHL — — — — — 7 4 1 5 2
1978–79 St. Albert Saints AJHL 17 15 18 33 64 — — — — —
1978–79 Indianapolis Racers WHA 5 0 0 0 0 — — — — —
1978–79 Cincinnati Stingers WHA 47 1 10 11 58 3 0 0 0 0
1979–80 Houston Apollos CHL 4 0 3 3 4 — — — — —
1979–80 Edmonton Oilers NHL 75 12 21 33 120 3 1 2 3 2
1980–81 Edmonton Oilers NHL 72 23 40 63 102 9 2 5 7 13
1981–82 Edmonton Oilers NHL 78 50 38 88 119 5 1 2 3 8
1982–83 Edmonton Oilers NHL 77 48 58 106 72 15 15 6 21 14
1983–84 Edmonton Oilers NHL 73 37 64 101 165 19 8 18 26 19
1984–85 Edmonton Oilers NHL 55 23 31 54 57 18 12 13 25 12
1985–86 Edmonton Oilers NHL 63 35 49 84 70 10 4 6 10 18
1986–87 Edmonton Oilers NHL 71 37 70 107 73 21 12 16 28 16
1987–88 Edmonton Oilers NHL 70 37 74 111 103 19 11 23 34 29
1988–89 Edmonton Oilers NHL 72 33 61 94 130 7 1 11 12 8
1989–90 Edmonton Oilers NHL 79 45 84 129 79 22 9 22 31 20
1990–91 Edmonton Oilers NHL 53 12 52 64 34 18 4 11 15 16
1991–92 New York Rangers NHL 79 35 72 107 76 11 7 7 14 6
1992–93 New York Rangers NHL 75 25 66 91 72 — — — — —
1993–94 New York Rangers NHL 76 26 58 84 76 23 12 18 30 33
1994–95 New York Rangers NHL 46 14 39 53 40 10 3 10 13 8
1995–96 New York Rangers NHL 74 47 52 99 122 11 4 7 11 16
1996–97 New York Rangers NHL 71 36 48 84 88 15 3 9 12 6
1997–98 Vancouver Canucks NHL 82 22 38 60 58 — — — — —
1998–99 Vancouver Canucks NHL 59 13 35 48 33 — — — — —
1999–2000 Vancouver Canucks NHL 66 17 37 54 30 — — — — —
2000–01 New York Rangers NHL 82 24 43 67 89 — — — — —
2001–02 New York Rangers NHL 41 7 16 23 32 — — — — —
2002–03 New York Rangers NHL 78 18 22 40 30 — — — — —
2003–04 New York Rangers NHL 76 18 25 43 42 — — — — —
NHL totals 1,756 694 1,193 1,887 1,912 236 109 186 295 244

Awards and honours

[edit]
Award Year(s)
NHL All-Star Game 1982, 1983, 1984, 1986, 1988, 1989, 1990, 1991, 1992, 1993, 1994, 1996, 1997, 1998, 2000, 2004
NHL First All-Star Team 1982,[a] 1983,[a] 1990,[b] 1992[b]
Stanley Cup champion 1984, 1985, 1987, 1988, 1990, 1994
Conn Smythe Trophy 1984
NHL Second All-Star Team 1984[a]
Hart Memorial Trophy 1990, 1992
Lester B. Pearson Award 1990, 1992
One of 100 Greatest NHL Players 2017

Career achievements

[edit]
  • The only player to have captained two Stanley Cup championship teams, the Edmonton Oilers and New York Rangers.[3]
  • In 1998, he was ranked number 12 on The Hockey News' list of the 100 Greatest Hockey Players.
  • On November 13, 2006, the National Hockey League created the Mark Messier Leadership Award, given to an individual in the sport who leads by example on the ice, motivates his teammates, and is dedicated to community activities and charitable causes.
  • His 1,887 points in the regular season are third all-time to Jaromír Jágr and Wayne Gretzky's 2857 (alongside whom he played for 11 seasons). Despite this feat, Messier never won a scoring title, as his best finish was runner-up in 1989–90. His career-high for regular season goals was 50 which he accomplished just once in 1981–82.
  • His 1,756 regular season NHL games played are third most all-time to Gordie Howe and Patrick Marleau who played in 1,767 and 1,779 regular season NHL games, respectively. He played in the most combined regular season and playoff games, with 1,992 total games.
  • He was the last active player to have played in the 1970s.
  • He was the last active player to have played in the World Hockey Association.
  • He was selected as an inductee to the Hockey Hall of Fame in June 2007, in his first year of eligibility, with the ceremony taking place in November 2007.
  • In the 2009 book 100 Ranger Greats, was ranked No. 4 all-time of the 901 New York Rangers who had played during the team's first 82 seasons[62]
  • In 2010, he was elected as an inaugural inductee into the World Hockey Association Hall of Fame in the "Legends of the Game" category.[63]
  • Named to the Order of Hockey in Canada by Hockey Canada in 2013.[64]

See also

[edit]

Notes

[edit]

References

[edit]

Further reading

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Mark Messier

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
Mark Messier is a Canadian former professional ice hockey centre who played 25 seasons in the National Hockey League (NHL), renowned for his leadership, scoring prowess, and role in winning six championships. Born on January 18, 1961, in , Messier stood at 6 feet 2 inches tall and weighed 211 pounds, shooting left-handed, and was drafted by the in the third round, 48th overall, in the 1979 NHL Entry Draft. Over his career, he amassed 1,887 points (694 goals and 1,193 assists) in 1,756 regular-season games, ranking him among the NHL's all-time greats in scoring and becoming the second player to surpass Gordie Howe's points total. He won the Hart Memorial Trophy as league MVP and the Ted Lindsay Award in 1990 while with the Oilers. Messier's NHL career began with the Edmonton Oilers in 1979, following a brief stint in the World Hockey Association (WHA), where he formed part of a dominant dynasty alongside Wayne Gretzky, contributing to five Stanley Cup victories in 1984, 1985, 1987, 1988, and 1990. He earned the Conn Smythe Trophy as playoff MVP in 1984 after a pivotal goal in Game 3 of the Stanley Cup Final against the New York Islanders, and was named captain of the Oilers in 1988, showcasing his renowned leadership qualities. In 1991, Messier was traded to the New York Rangers, where he won the Hart Memorial Trophy and Ted Lindsay Award again in 1992. A defining moment came during the 1994 playoffs with the Rangers, when Messier famously "guaranteed" a win in Game 6 of the Eastern Conference Final against the , delivering a to force Game 7 and ultimately leading New York to its first in 54 years—the only player to two different franchises to the . After a stint with the from 1997 to 2000, where he reached his 600th career goal in 1998, Messier returned to the Rangers for his final seasons before retiring on September 12, 2005. Internationally, he represented in three Canada Cups (1984, 1987, 1991), the 1989 , and the 1996 . Messier's legacy as one of the NHL's greatest leaders was cemented with his 2007 induction into the , the retirement of his number 11 by both the Oilers and Rangers, and the establishment of the Mark Messier NHL Leadership Award that same year. He also received the in 2009 for contributions to hockey in the United States and was named one of the NHL's 100 Greatest Players in 2017. Known for his all-around game—combining elite skill, speed, physicality, and a lethal wrist shot—Messier is often compared to for his blend of talent and toughness.

Early Life and Junior Career

Early life

Mark John Douglas Messier was born on January 18, 1961, in , , . He was the third of four children born to Douglas Messier, a professional hockey player and coach, and Mary-Jean Messier (née Dea). Douglas, who had a lengthy career in minor professional leagues including stints with the , Flyers, and Portland Buckaroos, played a pivotal role in fostering his children's interest in sports from an early age. Messier's siblings included his older brother Paul (born 1958), and sisters Mary-Kay and Jennifer, creating a close-knit family environment centered around athletics. The family's dynamics were heavily influenced by Douglas's passion for hockey; he not only shared stories and skills from his playing days but also coached local junior teams, exposing his children to the sport's rigors and joys. This paternal guidance instilled a strong work ethic and competitive spirit in Messier, who often tagged along to his father's games and practices as a young child. In 1965, when Messier was four years old, the family relocated to , following Douglas's contract with the Portland Buckaroos of the . The move introduced the young Messier to a new cultural and environmental landscape, far from the winters, where he adapted to life in the while his father continued his professional career. The family returned to the area in 1968, when Messier was seven, after Douglas retired from professional playing. These relocations shaped Messier's early adaptability, as he navigated different communities and climates, all while maintaining a growing affinity for hockey through family encouragement and access to local rinks. His initial forays into the sport occurred informally at neighborhood ice surfaces in both Portland and Edmonton-area suburbs, sparked by sibling play and parental support, laying the groundwork for his lifelong dedication.

Junior hockey development

Messier's entry into organized junior hockey came at age 15 when he made the roster of the Mets in the (AJHL) for the 1976–77 season, a team coached by his father, Doug Messier. As one of the youngest players in Junior A, he quickly adapted to the competitive level, contributing offensively with 27 goals and 39 assists for 66 points in 57 games, while accumulating 91 penalty minutes that hinted at his emerging physical style. This debut season marked a significant step in his development, transitioning from local youth play to a structured league that emphasized skill and toughness. Following the Mets' relocation to become the St. Albert Saints for the 1977–78 season, Messier continued to progress, posting 25 goals and 49 assists for 74 points in 54 games, alongside a notable increase to 194 penalty minutes. Physically imposing at nearly 200 pounds by age 16, he evolved from a pure forward into a versatile enforcer role, blending scoring ability with leadership and on-ice intimidation to protect teammates and drive team momentum. His aggressive play style, characterized by relentless forechecking and physical presence, became a hallmark, fostering the that would define his professional career. Messier's standout junior performances drew widespread interest, culminating in his selection by the in the third round, 48th overall, at the 1979 NHL Entry Draft. This draft position reflected evaluators' recognition of his raw potential as a big, skilled capable of impacting games through both production and physicality, setting the stage for his rapid ascent to professional hockey.

Professional Playing Career

World Hockey Association debut

Mark Messier began his professional hockey career at the age of 17 when he signed an underage free agent tryout contract with the of the (WHA) on November 5, 1978. He made his pro debut that same day against the , appearing in five games for the Racers without recording a point. The Racers franchise folded on December 15, 1978, amid financial difficulties, ending Messier's brief stint with the team. Following the Racers' collapse, Messier returned briefly to junior hockey before signing as a with the of the WHA in January 1979. During the remainder of the 1978–79 season, he played 47 games for the Stingers, contributing 1 goal and 10 assists for 11 points while accumulating 58 penalty minutes. His limited offensive production—coupled with a high number of penalties—highlighted the adjustment period for the young forward, who had to adapt to the intense physicality and quicker pace of professional play, often filling a role on the checking line where toughness in board battles was essential. The WHA ceased operations after the 1978–79 season, with seven teams merging into the NHL, marking the end of Messier's time in the league. Selected by the Edmonton Oilers in the third round (48th overall) of the 1979 NHL Entry Draft, Messier transitioned seamlessly to the NHL with the Oilers, who had entered the league via the merger; he would go on to become the last former WHA player active in professional hockey, retiring from the NHL in 2004.

Edmonton Oilers dynasty (1979–1991)

Mark Messier made his NHL debut with the Edmonton Oilers on October 10, 1979, in the team's inaugural NHL season following their entry from the World Hockey Association, where he had spent the previous year honing his skills. In his rookie campaign of 1979-80, Messier appeared in 75 games, recording 12 goals and 21 assists for 33 points while accumulating 120 penalty minutes, establishing himself as a physical, two-way forward on a young, talented roster. Over the early 1980s, Messier developed strong on-ice chemistry with teammates Wayne Gretzky, who had joined the Oilers in the same transitional season, and Jari Kurri, drafted in 1980 and emerging as a prolific sniper by 1981-82; this core group's synergy propelled Edmonton from expansion underdogs to perennial contenders, with Messier often centering the second line and contributing defensively in key matchups. By the 1981-82 season, Messier had broken out offensively with 50 goals and 48 assists for 98 points in 78 games, signaling his ascent as one of the league's elite power forwards. The Oilers' dynasty crystallized in the mid-1980s, beginning with their first Stanley Cup victory in 1984, when Messier played a pivotal role in the playoffs, tallying 8 goals and 18 assists for 26 points in 18 games en route to defeating the New York Islanders in five games. For his standout performance, including crucial goals against the Islanders' stout defense and leadership in high-pressure situations, Messier earned the Conn Smythe Trophy as the most valuable player of the playoffs, becoming the first Oiler to receive the honor despite trailing Gretzky and Kurri in total scoring. The team repeated as champions in 1985, sweeping the Philadelphia Flyers in the Final, with Messier contributing 15 points in 18 playoff games amid Edmonton's high-octane offense that overwhelmed opponents. After a brief Finals loss to the Calgary Flames in 1986, the Oilers reclaimed the Cup in 1987, defeating the Flyers again in seven games, where Messier's physical presence and 17 playoff points helped anchor the forward group during Gretzky's dominant 31-point postseason. The Oilers won again in 1988 under captain Gretzky, edging the Boston Bruins in five games, with Messier posting 11 goals and 23 assists for 34 points in 19 playoff contests. Messier's leadership took center stage following Gretzky's trade to the Los Angeles Kings in August 1988, when he was named Oilers captain for the 1988-89 season, succeeding his longtime linemate and guiding a retooled roster back to glory. Under his captaincy, the dynasty peaked again in 1990, as Messier led the Oilers to their fifth Cup in seven years by defeating the Bruins in five games; his captaincy emphasized resilience and team unity, compensating for the loss of Gretzky and other stars through a balanced attack that featured his 21 playoff points. That 1989-90 regular season, Messier had a career-best 84 assists to go with 45 goals for 129 points in 79 games, earning him the Hart Memorial Trophy as the NHL's most valuable player in a vote that highlighted his all-around impact on a championship-caliber team. Amid mounting financial pressures and a franchise rebuild after their fifth Cup, Messier was traded to the on October 4, 1991, in exchange for , Steven Rice, and , marking an emotional end to his 12-season tenure with . Over those years, spanning 851 regular-season games, Messier amassed 392 goals and 642 assists for 1,034 points, plus 236 playoff points in 171 games, solidifying his legacy as the heart of the Oilers' dynasty and one of the most influential leaders in NHL history. The departure was bittersweet, with Messier expressing deep gratitude for the city and organization that nurtured his career, but it signaled the close of an era defined by five Stanley Cups and unparalleled success.

New York Rangers first tenure (1991–1997)

Messier was traded to the from the on October 4, 1991, in exchange for forwards , Steven Rice, and , arriving as a proven leader with five championships already to his name. Named the 20th captain in franchise history prior to the 1991–92 season, he immediately instilled a culture of accountability and intensity, drawing on his prior experience leading the Oilers to multiple titles. In his debut season, Messier recorded 35 goals and 72 assists for 107 points in 79 games, earning his second as the NHL's most valuable player and the Award (now ) for outstanding performance. Messier's leadership peaked during the 1993–94 playoffs, culminating in the Rangers' first victory in 54 years. Facing elimination in Game 6 of the Eastern Conference Finals against the , with the series at 3–2, Messier boldly guaranteed a win to the media, stating, "We know we are going to go in there and win and bring it back here for Game 7." He backed his words with a natural in the third period, scoring three goals to secure a 4–2 victory and force a decisive Game 7, which the Rangers won 2–1 in double overtime. In the Final against the , New York prevailed in seven games, with Messier contributing 11 playoff points; this marked his sixth overall Cup, presented to him as captain on June 14, 1994, at . Over his first tenure with the Rangers from 1991 to 1997, Messier established himself as a dominant force, accumulating 183 goals and 335 assists for 518 points in 421 regular-season games while serving as captain. He earned four selections during this period (1992, 1994, 1996, and 1997), showcasing his enduring elite status amid a shortened 1994–95 lockout season and consistent playoff contention. However, tensions arose toward the end, leading to his departure as a in July 1997 after negotiations soured with Neil Smith, who offered a one-year deal at $4 million—seen by Messier as undervaluing his contributions. Feeling disrespected by the organization's stance, he signed a five-year worth approximately $30 million ($6 million per season), including a $2 million option after three years, with the .

Vancouver Canucks period (1997–2000)

Following his departure from the , Mark Messier signed a five-year contract worth approximately $30 million ($6 million per season), including a $2 million option after three years, with the on July 28, 1997, and was immediately named the team's captain, succeeding . At age 36, Messier was expected to provide veteran leadership and scoring punch to a Canucks squad aiming to contend in the Western Conference, drawing on his prior successes as a captain with the and Rangers. However, the move marked the beginning of a challenging phase in his career, as the high expectations were tempered by the realities of his advancing age and the team's ongoing struggles. Messier's production declined noticeably during his tenure in , reflecting both age-related slowdown and injury setbacks. In the 1997–98 season, he recorded 22 goals and 38 assists for 60 points in 82 games, a respectable but diminished output compared to his peak years, as his skating speed and physicality began to wane. The following year, a lockout did not affect the schedule—contrary to some recollections—but Messier was limited to 59 games due to various ailments, including a injury sustained in November 1999 that caused him to miss time, finishing with 13 goals and 35 assists for 48 points. In 1999–2000, he managed 17 goals and 37 assists for 54 points in 66 games, again hampered by injuries and the cumulative toll of nearly two decades in the NHL. Over his three seasons, Messier amassed 52 goals, 110 assists, and 162 points in 207 games, a far cry from his earlier dominance. The Canucks, meanwhile, endured three consecutive seasons without playoff qualification during Messier's time as captain, underscoring a poor fit between the aging star and a rebuilding roster. In 1997–98, Vancouver finished last in the Pacific Division with a 25–43–14 record (64 points), missing the playoffs by a wide margin. The 1998–99 campaign saw further decline, with a 23–47–12 mark (58 points) and another bottom-of-the-division finish in the newly formed Northwest Division. Despite a slight improvement to 30–29–15–8 (83 points) in 1999–2000, placing third in the Northwest but still out of postseason contention, the team lacked the depth and goaltending to compete effectively. Messier's leadership could not reverse the franchise's momentum, as internal dynamics and roster inconsistencies contributed to the overall disappointment. On June 30, 2000, the Canucks exercised a $2 million on the remaining two years of Messier's contract—effectively ending his three-year stint after 207 games—and the parting was described as mutual amid the evident mismatch. This decision allowed Messier to become a at age 39, closing a chapter that failed to recapture his earlier glory despite his enduring reputation as one of hockey's all-time greats.

New York Rangers return and retirement (2000–2004)

After three seasons with the , Mark Messier signed a two-year, $11 million contract with the on July 13, 2000, marking an emotional return to the team where he had previously served as captain and led to the 1994 Stanley Cup championship. The signing was viewed as a sentimental homecoming, with Messier expressing a desire to contribute leadership and experience to the rebuilding Rangers franchise at age 39. In his final four NHL seasons from 2000–01 to 2003–04, Messier appeared in 277 games for the Rangers, recording 67 points in 82 games during 2000–01, followed by declining production of 23 points in 41 games in 2001–02, 40 points in 78 games in 2002–03, and 43 points in 76 games in 2003–04, for a total of 173 points. These years reflected the physical toll of his long career, with Messier transitioning to a more veteran leadership role amid the Rangers' struggles to return to playoff contention. A career highlight came on , , when Messier surpassed Gordie Howe's NHL record for second place on the all-time points list, achieving his 1,851st point with two goals in a 3-0 win over the . The prevented a potential return, and Messier officially announced his retirement on September 12, 2005, after 25 professional seasons, having played 1,756 NHL games and amassed 1,887 points. The Rangers honored Messier's contributions by retiring his number 11 jersey on January 12, 2006, in a ceremony before a game against the . The followed suit, retiring his number 11 on February 27, 2007.

International competitions

Mark Messier represented Team in several major international tournaments throughout his career, showcasing his leadership and scoring prowess in high-stakes competitions against global rivals. His contributions helped secure multiple victories in the series, a prestigious event featuring top NHL talent, and he played a pivotal role in other key events like the IIHF World Championships and . Messier first donned the Maple Leaf in the , where he contributed 2 goals and 4 assists in 8 games as defeated 2-0 in the final to claim gold. His performance alongside stars like and highlighted his emerging role as a reliable two-way forward in intense rivalry matchups against the and . Three years later, at the , Messier tallied 1 goal and 6 assists over 9 games, aiding Canada's dramatic 6-5 overtime victory over the in the final to secure another . Playing on a line with Gretzky and , he provided physical presence and playmaking in crucial games, including the semifinal win against . In 1989, Messier competed in his only IIHF World Championships, serving as a key forward for en route to a after a 4-3 loss to the in the final. He recorded 3 goals and 3 assists in 6 games, emphasizing his importance in the tournament's physical, end-to-end style against European powerhouses. Messier captained Team to gold at the , registering 2 goals and 6 assists for 8 points in 8 games during the tournament's final edition. His was evident in the 7-4 final triumph over the , where he helped orchestrate a dominant offensive effort in one of the series' most memorable clashes. Messier's final major international appearance came at the , where he provided veteran as reached the final but fell 5-2 to the . He notched 1 goal and 4 assists in 7 games, including a goal in the semifinal against , underscoring his enduring impact in high-pressure North American rivalries despite the runner-up finish. Over his international career with Team Canada, Messier appeared in 38 games, accumulating 9 goals, 23 assists, and 32 points, with many of his standout moments occurring in pivotal games against traditional adversaries like the and .

Post-Playing Career

Coaching and executive positions

After retiring from professional hockey in 2005, Mark Messier joined the New York Rangers organization in August 2009 as a special assistant to president and , where he provided advisory input on player personnel decisions and team strategy. In this role, Messier focused on scouting and development aspects, drawing on his extensive playing experience to contribute to the team's front-office operations until his departure in June 2013, following the Rangers' decision not to promote him to . Messier also took on prominent roles with , serving as general manager for the Canadian national team at the in . Later that year, he transitioned to for Canada's teams at the 2010 Deutschland Cup, where they secured the tournament title, and the , guiding the squad to the final before a 4-3 loss to SKA St. Petersburg. These positions highlighted his involvement in executive leadership and player development initiatives at the international level, emphasizing and team-building for emerging talent within 's programs. In 2007, the NHL established the Mark Messier NHL Leadership Award, an annual honor Messier helped found to recognize players who exemplify outstanding qualities on and off the ice, with Messier personally selecting the recipient in consultation with league officials. The award, first presented for the 2006-07 season, underscores Messier's post-playing commitment to promoting in hockey through formal recognition and his ongoing advisory influence in the sport.

Media and broadcasting roles

Following his retirement from professional hockey in 2005, Mark Messier transitioned into broadcasting roles, beginning with studio analysis for Versus in the mid-, where he provided insights during NHL coverage. He later served as a for NBC's NHL playoff broadcasts and as an in-game analyst for the network's All-Star Game coverage in the late and early . Messier also made occasional guest appearances on , contributing commentary on games and team dynamics. In 2014, Messier joined as a spokesperson and occasional analyst for their national NHL broadcasts, including appearances on , which airs , where he offered analysis on and during the 2014–15 season and beyond. These guest spots extended into the , focusing on historical context and strategic elements of the sport across Canadian networks. Messier expanded his media presence in 2021 by signing a multi-year deal with to serve as a lead studio analyst for NHL coverage, beginning with the 2021–22 season. In this role, he analyzes regular-season games, playoffs, and contributes to studio segments, drawing on his experience as a six-time champion to discuss team strategies and player performance. He has appeared on NHL Network specials, providing commentary on leadership themes and hockey history, such as retrospectives on iconic dynasties. As of 2025, Messier's role remains ongoing, with him leading ABC Hockey Saturday studio coverage starting in January, alongside no reported major changes to his contract since 2021. In a recent development, he joined Video's "Prime Monday Night Hockey" as an analyst for select Canadian broadcasts beginning in the 2024–25 season, sharing personal stories from his career in dedicated segments.

Philanthropy and business activities

Following his retirement from professional hockey, Mark Messier established the Mark Messier Foundation in 2016 to promote leadership and combat through initiatives centered on , healthy living, and . The foundation does not operate programs directly but provides funding to external organizations that deliver measurable benefits in building confidence, , and awareness of opportunities for underserved children, particularly in . For instance, it has supported efforts to enhance educational access and health outcomes for urban , aligning with Messier's emphasis on and . Messier has also been a key backer of the National Ice Center, a proposed multi-rink facility at the historic in , New York, intended to foster hockey programs and serve as the world's largest indoor ice complex. Announced in the mid-2010s, the 750,000-square-foot project includes nine rinks, a 5,000-seat arena, and spaces for training and events, with Messier contributing to its vision as a hub for youth development and accessibility in hockey. Despite securing investments like a $10 million equity commitment from , the initiative encountered significant delays, including legal and financing hurdles. The project ultimately did not proceed, and in October 2025, the approved a new redevelopment plan for the site as The Center, a mixed-use facility without ice rinks. In his business pursuits, Messier owns the Runaway Hill Club, a resort on Harbour Island in , featuring 11 rooms on lush grounds overlooking a pink-sand . Acquired by his family in the early 2000s and managed by relatives, the property emphasizes relaxed luxury and has become a personal retreat reflecting Messier's post-career interests in and island living. Messier's community involvement extends to New York Rangers outreach, where he participates in alumni events and charitable activities to support local causes, often tying into the foundation's goals for youth health and education in underserved areas. Through these efforts, he has helped raise funds and awareness for initiatives benefiting New York City's children, reinforcing his legacy of leadership beyond the ice.

Personal Life

Family and relationships

Mark Messier has been married to Kim Clark since 2008, following a six-year relationship that began in 2002. The couple welcomed their first child, son Douglas Paul, on July 15, 2003, and their daughter, Jacqueline Jean, in August 2005. Messier is also father to an older son, Lyon, born on August 16, 1987, from a previous relationship with model Lesley Young, following a successful paternity suit filed by Young in 1988. followed in his father's footsteps by pursuing hockey, playing junior levels and enjoying a brief professional stint in the , including appearances with the during the 2008–09 season. Throughout his 25-season NHL career, which involved frequent travel and relocations across teams in , New York, and , Messier emphasized the central role of his family in providing support and stability. He has described his children as the most important aspect of his life, noting the close-knit dynamic that included joining the family for holidays even as younger siblings arrived. The Messier family has largely kept personal details private, sharing only select insights into their relationships and home life.

Residences and personal interests

Messier has maintained a strong connection to the metropolitan area throughout much of his post-playing career, residing in , where he purchased a luxury five-bedroom home at 19 Stoney Wylde Lane for $3.8 million in September 2021. The property, spanning over 5,800 square feet, reflects his preference for upscale suburban living near the city. He has been frequently spotted in local Greenwich establishments, underscoring his integration into the community. In addition to his primary residence, Messier owns the Runaway Hill Club, a beachfront and on Harbour in , which serves as a personal vacation retreat and investment property. Acquired through family ties—his sister Jennifer Messier formerly served as general manager—the property overlooks the island's renowned pink sand beaches and has been a favored escape since his first visit there on a trip during his Rangers tenure. Messier's personal interests center on outdoor pursuits, particularly golf and fishing. He is an avid golfer, regularly participating in matches with fellow hockey legends like Wayne Gretzky and hosting annual charity golf outings at venues such as Anglebrook Golf Club in New York to support his foundation's initiatives. Fishing holds special appeal, with Messier organizing the Mark Messier's Catch Classic tournament and frequently sharing experiences like deep-sea tuna trips, often tied to his time at the Bahamas property. These activities highlight his appreciation for relaxed, nature-based recreation away from the intensity of professional sports. Since retiring from the NHL in , Messier has embraced a low-profile lifestyle as of 2025, dividing time between his Greenwich home and retreat while prioritizing family and these personal hobbies over public engagements.

Legacy and Achievements

Major awards and honors

Mark Messier won six championships during his NHL career, five with the in 1984, 1985, 1987, 1988, and 1990, and one with the in . As of both the Oilers in 1990 and the Rangers in 1994, Messier became the only player in NHL history to lead two different teams to the title. Messier earned two Hart Memorial Trophies as the league's most valuable player, first in the 1989–90 season with the Oilers and again in the 1991–92 season with the Rangers. He also received the Conn Smythe Trophy as playoff MVP in 1984, when the Oilers defeated the New York Islanders to claim their initial Stanley Cup. Additionally, Messier was named to the NHL First All-Star Team four times (1982, 1983, 1990, 1992) and the Second All-Star Team once (1984), and he appeared in 15 NHL All-Star Games from 1982 to 2004. His jersey number 11 was retired by the on January 12, 2004, and by the on February 6, 2007. In recognition of his contributions to the sport, Messier was inducted into the in 2007 in his first year of eligibility. He received the Order of Hockey in Canada in 2013 for his exemplary leadership and impact on the game. In 2017, Messier was honored as one of the in conjunction with the league's centennial celebrations.

Career statistics and records

Mark Messier played 1,756 regular season games in the National Hockey League (NHL), accumulating 694 goals, 1,193 assists, and 1,887 points, along with 1,912 penalty minutes. At the time of his retirement in 2004, these totals placed him third all-time in career points, behind Wayne Gretzky's 2,857 and ahead of Gordie Howe's 1,850. His scoring breakdown by team reflects his primary tenures with the , , and .
TeamYearsGPGAPPIM
Edmonton Oilers1979–19918513926421,0341,024
New York Rangers1991–1997, 2000–2004698250441691767
Vancouver Canucks1997–200020752110162119
NHL Totals1979–20041,7566941,1931,8871,912
In the playoffs, Messier appeared in 236 games, the third-most all-time, recording 109 goals, 186 assists, and 295 points. These figures rank him second all-time in playoff points, behind only Gretzky's 382.
CategoryGPGAP
236109186295
On November 4, 2003, he surpassed Gordie Howe's long-standing NHL career points total of 1,850 with his 1,851st point, a milestone achieved through two goals against the . Additionally, Messier was the last active professional hockey player to have competed in the (WHA), having played three games for the in 1978–79 before the league's merger with the NHL.

Influence on hockey and rankings

Mark Messier's leadership during the ' 1994 Stanley Cup playoff run, which ended a 54-year championship drought, earned him the enduring nickname "The Messiah," reflecting his pivotal role in transforming the franchise's culture and inspiring a generation of players to embrace accountability and intensity. This archetype of resolute, transformative captaincy directly influenced the establishment of the Mark Messier NHL Leadership Award in 2007, an annual honor presented by the NHL to recognize players who exemplify outstanding leadership qualities on and off the ice, with Messier himself selecting recipients to perpetuate his emphasis on team-first ethos and community impact. Messier's contributions extended to reshaping offensive play in the NHL, particularly as a cornerstone of the ' dynasty in the , where his physicality, speed, and playmaking alongside and helped pioneer a high-octane, transition-based style that prioritized puck possession and rapid counterattacks, influencing subsequent generations of fast-paced hockey. He remains the only player in NHL history to captain two different teams to victories—first with the Oilers in 1990 and then with the Rangers in 1994—highlighting his unique ability to instill winning habits across franchises and cementing his status as a of perseverance and clutch performance. In recognition of his overall impact, Messier was ranked 18th among the NHL's 100 Greatest Players in , as selected by a panel of hockey experts for the league's celebration, underscoring his blend of scoring prowess and intangibles. At his retirement in , he ranked second all-time in NHL points with 1,887, behind only Gretzky, though active players have since pushed him to seventh on the career list. As of 2025, Messier's influence persists through his media roles, including leading ABC's Hockey Saturday studio coverage starting in 2026, where he provides drawing on his insights to guide current players and fans. His involvement in youth hockey programs, such as mentoring initiatives aimed at increasing and skill development for young athletes, continues to foster the next generation, maintaining his reverence in the hockey community without major new personal honors since 2021.

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