Wayne Gretzky is the best example of the quote “Love can make one do crazy things.” While his love for ice hockey made him call Connor McDavid to congratulate him for his spectacular performance, this was not all. Recently, Gretzky related how he desired to get the number of a popular NHL player after seeing his phenomenal performance for the Colorado Avalanches.

The player was Nathan MacKinnon, who thrilled fans with his performances, playing at the center position for Colorado Avalanches. Describing MacKinnon’s unforgettable prowess on the ice hockey field, Wayne Gretzky expressed how it was the greatest playoff he had ever seen MacKinnon play. He also related how he had called MacKinnon to commend him post his spectacular performance. So which was the game Gretzky was talking about?

Wayne Gretzky recounts an unforgettable game

Describing the memorable playoffs where Colorado Avalanches played against Calgary Flames in Calgary, Gretzky recalled, “I remember Nathan had a goal..” Apparently, Gretzky is referring to the 2019 playoffs where MacKinnon hit a goal in overtime in the second game versus the Calgary Flames in Scotiabank Saddledome. This OT goal helped the Avalanches to win the match, with the final score of 3-2.

Later, Gretzky told how after seeing this exciting match held in Calgary, he requested his son Ty Gretzky who was a good friend of MacKinnon, “Can you give me his number?” Getting the number, Gretzky reached out to Mackinnon. Further, he related how he told MacKinnon, “You played like a man.”

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This was not the only time he had reached out to MacKinnon. In 2022, Gretzky again reached out to MacKinnon during the playoffs. But what was MacKinnon’s reaction?

Read More: How Many Goals Does Wayne Gretzky Have?

Nathan MacKinnon describes his experience when Wayne Gretzky contacted him

Talking to the 32 Thoughts podcast, MacKinnon disclosed how Gretzky used to often text him during the 2022 Stanley Cup playoffs. “That was fun”, MacKinnon admitted.

Later, responding to Elliotte’s question of whether Gretzky gave him any advice, Mackinnon revealed that Gretzky only praised him for his performance. Elaborating on how he thanked Gretzky for his compliments, Mackinnon also indicated he was surprised by Gretzky’s gesture.

Gretzky’s thoughts about MacKinnon show how he has a deep respect and admiration for MacKinnon’s abilities on the hockey field. Do you think MacKinnon can be the next GOAT of ice hockey? Share your thoughts in the comments section.

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