The Alberta Oilers history traces the roots of the franchise before it became the Edmonton Oilers. As a founding Alberta Oilers hockey team in the WHA, they quickly gained attention for their exciting style of play and passionate fan base. Their early success laid the groundwork for one of hockey’s most iconic dynasties after their NHL transition.
Established
1972
City
Alberta - Edmonton
League History
1980 – Present / National Hockey League
1972 – 1979 / World Hockey Association
Team History
1973 – Present / Edmonton Oilers
1972 / Alberta Oilers
Nickname
Oilers – The Alberta Oilers are one of the most beloved teams in the NHL, and their nickname has a long and exciting history. The team was founded in 1972 as part of the World Hockey Association (WHA), which merged with the NHL in 1979. The name “Oilers” derives from an oil boom during Alberta’s early years as a province.
Many people were arriving to work on various oil extraction and refining projects throughout Alberta. As these workers moved around looking for jobs, they became known colloquially as “oilers” due to their involvement with petroleum-related activities. Hence, it made sense for Edmonton's professional hockey team to adopt this nickname when they joined WHA in 1972!
Alberta Oilers Origin
In addition, there is also some symbolism behind choosing an animal mascot associated with oil: Oilsands mining operations often involve large machinery such as bulldozers or excavators working together like ants or bees. So by using an antlered creature (the official logo features a deer), it pays homage to those who worked hard within Alberta's booming economy at that time while also representing strength through unity among its players on the ice!
Furthermore, since then, Oilers have become synonymous not only with Albertan culture but Canadian pride too; no matter where you go across Canada, you'll find fans wearing jerseys proudly displaying "Oil Country" across them – showing just how much love there is out there for our beloved hockey team from up north!
Championship
Stanley Cup 0
1990, 1988, 1987, 1985, 1984
Avco Cup 0
Arena
2016 – Present / Rogers Place
2003 – 2016 / Rexall Place
1998 – 2003 / Skyreach Centre
1995 – 1998 / Edmonton Coliseum
1974 – 1995 / Northlands Coliseum
1972 – 1974 / Edmonton Gardens
Owner
2008 – Present / Daryl Katz
1998 – 2008 / Edmonton Investors Group Limited Partnership
1979 – 1998 / Peter Pocklington
1972 – 1979 / Bill Hunter
- 1972
-
Alberta Oilers Team Formation
After the newly founded Calgary Broncos folded prior to the commencement of the inaugural WHA season, the Oilers have renamed the Alberta Oilers as it was planned to split their home games between Edmonton and Calgary. Possibly for financial reasons or to allow for a less complicated return of the WHA to Calgary, though, the team ultimately played all of ...
To qualify as the greatest player for this team, the player must have played one season for this team. If not, we will remove the player.
* verifies that player has played for this team as an added player by a fan.
Alberta Oilers History
The Alberta Oilers history began in 1972 when the franchise was founded as one of the original teams in the World Hockey Association (WHA). Initially named the Alberta Oilers hockey team, they played home games in both Edmonton and Calgary during their first season before officially becoming the Edmonton Oilers in 1973. This early period helped set the stage for one of the most successful franchises in professional hockey. The Alberta Oilers hockey team developed rivalries with other WHA clubs, most notably the Winnipeg Jets and Calgary-based teams, which added intensity to their matchups.
In 1979, the Alberta Oilers hockey team joined the NHL as part of the WHA–NHL merger, officially continuing their journey as the Edmonton Oilers. Under head coach Glen Sather and led by superstars Wayne Gretzky, Mark Messier, Paul Coffey, and Grant Fuhr, they quickly established dominance. Between 1984 and 1990, the club won five Stanley Cup championships in just seven seasons, a stretch that defined the Alberta Oilers history as one of unparalleled excellence in professional hockey.
The Alberta Oilers hockey team also produced some of the greatest individual achievements in the sport. Wayne Gretzky won multiple MVP awards (Hart Trophies) during this era, while Grant Fuhr and Mark Messier also became Hall of Fame legends. Their fast-paced, high-scoring style made them one of the most feared and respected teams in NHL history.
Even after the dynasty years, the Alberta Oilers history continued to feature memorable moments. The franchise reached the Stanley Cup Finals again in 2006 and has since been revitalized in the modern era with stars like Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl leading the way. Their resurgence shows how the Alberta Oilers hockey team legacy remains strong and relevant today.
Oilers Achievements
The Alberta Oilers hockey team won five Stanley Cups between 1984 and 1990, making them one of the most decorated teams in modern NHL history. They also secured multiple division titles, produced numerous league MVPs, and developed some of the greatest players ever to skate in the NHL.
Beyond championships, the Alberta Oilers history is marked by its impact on Canadian hockey culture. From their WHA beginnings as a true “Alberta” team to their transformation into an Edmonton powerhouse, they inspired a generation of fans and continue to be a cornerstone of professional hockey in Canada.
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Retired Number
3 / Al Hamilton
7 / Paul Coffey
9 / Glenn Anderson
11 / Mark Messier
17 / Jari Kurri
31 / Grant Fuhr
99 / Wayne Gretzky
*Blue is this team’s history
