Mark Messier

Mark Messier is a Canadian former professional ice hockey player, born on January 18, 1961, in Edmonton, Alberta. He is widely recognized as one of the greatest ice hockey players of all time. Messier began his professional career with the Edmonton Oilers in 1979, where he won multiple Stanley Cup titles.

Messier is known for his leadership, physical style of play, scoring ability, and versatility. He has won numerous individual awards, including two Hart Trophies, and holds multiple records, such as the second most points in NHL history.

Off the ice, Messier is also recognized for his philanthropy and influence, making significant charitable contributions and inspiring millions worldwide.

Edmonton Oilers

• Early Career: Messier was drafted by the Edmonton Oilers in 1979. Under the guidance of Glen Sather, he developed into one of the NHL's best forwards, winning five Stanley Cup titles and his first Hart Trophy.

New York Rangers

• Leading the Rangers: In 1991, Messier was traded to the New York Rangers. He led the team to their first Stanley Cup victory in 54 years in 1994, winning his second Hart Trophy in the process.

Vancouver Canucks

• Late Career: Messier signed with the Vancouver Canucks in 1997, where he played until returning to the Rangers in 2000. He retired in 2004.

Canada National Team

• World Championships: Messier represented Canada in six World Championships, winning the gold medal in 1984.
• Canada Cup: Messier represented Canada in the Canada Cup tournament, winning the cup in 1984, 1987, and 1991.
• Olympics: Messier was part of the Canadian team at the 1984 Winter Olympics.

• Position: Primarily a center, but also excelled as a left wing.
• Skills: Known for his physical style of play, scoring ability, and leadership. Messier is celebrated for his versatility, powerful shots, and playmaking ability.

• Family: Messier has two children. He was in a relationship with actress Kim Clark.
• Philanthropy: Messier is involved in various charitable activities and has donated significant sums to children's hospitals and cancer research.

• Mark Messier is celebrated not only for his extraordinary talent and numerous records but also for his leadership, determination, and longevity in professional ice hockey. His impact on the sport and his status as an icon extend beyond the ice, inspiring millions of fans around the world.

Second Most Points in NHL History:

• Over 1,887 points

Stanley Cup Champion:

• Six times (five with the Oilers, one with the Rangers)

Hart Trophy Winner:

• Twice (1990, 1992)

Most Playoff Points:

• Over 295 points

Books

• Messier, M. (2004) Mark Messier: Leader, Champion & Legend. Toronto: Random House Canada.
• Fischler, S. (1999) Messier: Mark of a Winner. New York: Sports Publishing LLC.

Websites

• NHL: Information about Mark Messier’s career and achievements. Available at: https://www.nhl.com
• Edmonton Oilers: Details about Messier’s career with the Oilers. Available at: https://www.nhl.com/oilers
• New York Rangers: Updates on Messier’s performance and records with the Rangers. Available at: https://www.nhl.com/rangers

Articles

• Sports Illustrated: Mark Messier: Career in numbers. Available at: https://www.si.com
• The New York Times: Mark Messier’s career highlights and records. Available at: https://www.nytimes.com

Interviews and Documentaries

• The Messier Effect (2012): This documentary provides a detailed look at Messier’s life and career, featuring interviews with his family, friends, and colleagues.
• ESPN Interviews: Various interviews and features on Mark Messier, covering different aspects of his career. Available at: https://www.espn.com