Mark Messier

Mark Messier is a Canadian former professional ice hockey player, born on January 18, 1961, in Edmonton, Alberta. Messier is widely regarded as one of the greatest hockey players of all time. He began his professional career with the Indianapolis Racers of the WHA before moving to the Edmonton Oilers, where he won five Stanley Cup titles.

Messier is known for his leadership qualities, offensive ability, and his aggressive style of play. He has won numerous individual awards, including two Hart Trophies as league MVP, 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 Success: Messier signed with the Edmonton Oilers in 1979. Playing alongside Wayne Gretzky, he developed into one of the world's best centers, winning five Stanley Cup titles and his first Hart Trophy in 1990.

New York Rangers

• Leadership Role: In 1991, Messier was traded to the New York Rangers. He became the team's captain and led the Rangers to their first Stanley Cup in 54 years in 1994.
  Individual Awards: At the Rangers, Messier won his second Hart Trophy in 1992.

Vancouver Canucks

• Later Career: Messier joined the Vancouver Canucks in 1997, serving as the team's captain. His tenure in Vancouver was marred by controversy and the team failed to achieve significant success during his time.

New York Rangers (second stint)

• Return to New York: In 2000, Messier returned to the New York Rangers, where he finished his career in 2004.

Canada National Team

• Debut: Made his debut for Canada at the 1984 Canada Cup.

Achievements:

• Canada Cup: Winner in 1984, 1987, 1991.
• World Cup of Hockey: Winner in 2004.
• Messier represented Canada numerous times in international competition, including three Canada Cups and the 1996 World Cup of Hockey.

• Position: Primarily a center, but also excelled as a winger.
• Skills: Known for his leadership, strength, offensive ability, and toughness. Messier is celebrated for his versatility, powerful shots, and physicality.

• Family: Messier has three 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, cancer research, and disaster relief efforts.

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

Second Most Points in NHL History:

• Over 1,800 points

Second Most Games Played in NHL:

• Over 1,750 games

Most Playoff Points:

• 295 points

Six-time Stanley Cup Champion:

• Won five times with the Edmonton Oilers and once with the New York Rangers

Books

• Messier, M. (2013) No One Wins Alone. Toronto: Penguin Canada.
• MacGregor, R. (1994) Mark Messier: Steel on Ice. Toronto: HarperCollins Canada.

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: Official site with updates on Messier’s performance and records with the Rangers. Available at: https://www.nhl.com/rangers
• Vancouver Canucks: Official site with updates on Messier’s tenure with the Canucks. Available at: https://www.nhl.com/canucks

Articles

• Sportsnet: Mark Messier: Career in numbers. Available at: https://www.sportsnet.ca/hockey/nhl/mark-messier-career-numbers/
• The Hockey News: Mark Messier’s career highlights and records. Available at: https://thehockeynews.com/tag/mark-messier

Interviews and Documentaries

• The Messier Effect (2014): Directed by Don Metz. 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