The Edmonton Oilers history reflects a remarkable journey in professional hockey. Known for their dominance during the 1980s, the team transformed Edmonton Oilers hockey with multiple championships and legendary players like Wayne Gretzky and Mark Messier. This tradition of excellence continues today, making the Oilers one of the most celebrated franchises in the NHL.
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 Edmonton Oilers of the National Hockey League have a long and storied history, dating back to their inception in 1972. As one of the original teams in the NHL's expansion from six teams to twelve, they quickly became one of hockey's most successful franchises. But many people don't know that their nickname also has an interesting origin story!
Edmonton Oilers Origin
The team was originally owned by Bill Hunter and his son Daryl, both avid hunters. They wanted a name for their new franchise reflecting this passion, so when it came time to pick a nickname, they decided on "Oilers." This was because oil rigs are often used during hunting trips and because Alberta is known for its rich oil reserves - thus making it fittingly appropriate for an NHL team located there!
In addition to being named after these two activities associated with hunting, another reason why "Oilers" stuck as the chosen moniker can be attributed to former player Dave Semenko who suggested it due to his experience working at an oil rig before joining professional hockey. He felt that this name would give them some local flavor while drawing attention from fans across Canada (and beyond) thanks to its unique twist on traditional characters like Bears or Bulldogs, which other teams in various sports leagues around North America had already taken.
Over four decades later, we still see how much impact those early decisions have had; not only do Edmonton Oilers games draw large crowds, but merchandise featuring their logo continues to fly off shelves everywhere you look! So next time you're watching your favorite NHL squad take on opponents wearing blue-and-orange jerseys, make sure you remember just how far back those iconic colors go – all thanks to Mr. Hunter & Co.'s decision way about when deciding upon ‘Oilers’ as the official title of choice.
Championship
Stanley Cup 5
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
- 1980
- 1978
- 1984
- 1985
- 1987
- 1988
- 1988
- 1990
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Edmonton Oilers
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 ... -
Joining the NHL
The Oilers joined the National Hockey League for 1979 – 1980, along with fellow WHA teams Hartford Whalers, Quebec Nordiques, and the Jets following a merger agreement between the two leagues. Of these four teams, only Edmonton has avoided relocation and renaming; the Nordiques became the Colorado Avalanche in 1995, the Jets became the Phoenix Coyotes in 1996, and the ... -
Wayne Gretzky
Gretzky break his own assists record three more times (125 in 1982–83, 135 in 1984–85, and 163 in 1985–86); he also bettered that mark (120 assists) in 1986–87 with 121 and 1990–91 with 122, and his point record one more time (215, in 1985–86). By the time he finished playing in Edmonton, he held or shared 49 NHL records, which ... -
Stanley Cup Winner 1984
The 1984 Stanley Cup playoffs, the championship of the National Hockey League (NHL) began on April 4, after the conclusion of the 1983 – 1984 NHL season. The playoffs concluded on May 19 with the champion Edmonton Oilers defeating the New York Islanders 5–2 to win the Final series four games to one and win the Stanley Cup, the franchise’s ... -
Stanley Cup Winner 1985
The 1984 – 1985 NHL season was the 68th season of the National Hockey League. The Edmonton Oilers won their second straight Stanley Cup by beating the Philadelphia Flyers four games to one in the final series. -
Stanley Cup Winner 1987
The 1987 Stanley Cup playoffs, the championship of the National Hockey League (NHL) began on April 8, after the conclusion of the 1986 – 1987 NHL season. It concluded on May 31, with the Edmonton Oilers defeating the Philadelphia Flyers to win the Stanley Cup. In an attempt to reduce the number of first-round upsets, the NHL expanded the best-of-five ... -
Stanley Cup Winner 1988
The 1988 Stanley Cup playoffs, the championship of the National Hockey League (NHL), began on April 6, after the conclusion of the 1987 – 1988 NHL season. It concluded on May 26, with the defending champion Edmonton Oilers defeating the Boston Bruins to win their second straight Stanley Cup and fourth in five years. -
Trading Gretzky
In a surprising and shocking trade, Gretzky, along with enforcer Marty McSorley and center Mike Krushelnyski, were traded to the Los Angeles Kings on August 9, 1988. In exchange, the Oilers received $15 million US cash, young star Jimmy Carson, 1988 first round draft choice Martin Gelinas, and the Kings’ first-round draft picks in 1989, 1991, and 1993. The trade ... -
Stanley Cup Winner 1990
The 1990 Stanley Cup Playoffs for the National Hockey League (NHL) championship began on April 5, 1990, following the 1989 – 1990 regular season. The sixteen teams that qualified, from the top four teams of the four divisions, played best-of-seven series with re-seeding after the division finals. The Conference Champions played a best-of-seven series for the Stanley Cup.
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.
Edmonton Oilers History
The Edmonton Oilers history stands as one of the richest legacies in professional hockey. Founded in 1972 as part of the World Hockey Association, the team officially entered the NHL in 1979. Since then, the franchise has become a powerhouse, transforming Edmonton Oilers hockey into a global phenomenon. Their intense rivalries, especially within Alberta, have always added excitement to matchups.
During their early years in the NHL, the Edmonton Oilers history reached its peak with an incredible run of success. Between 1984 and 1990, the team captured five Stanley Cup championships, dominating Edmonton Oilers hockey like few teams ever have. This era, often called the “Dynasty Years,” featured Hall of Fame icons Wayne Gretzky, Mark Messier, Jari Kurri, Paul Coffey, Grant Fuhr, and Glenn Anderson, who collectively reshaped the game.
Although the team has not won a championship since 1990, Edmonton Oilers hockey remains highly competitive. With superstars like Connor McDavid, who secured multiple Hart Trophies as league MVP, and Leon Draisaitl, the franchise continues to uphold its historic tradition. Strategic roster moves and strong development programs are also keeping the Edmonton Oilers history alive for new generations of fans.
Oilers Achievements
One of the franchise’s greatest achievements beyond championships is its role in expanding the NHL’s reach during the 1980s. The Edmonton Oilers history not only brought success on the ice but also helped popularize Canadian hockey worldwide. Their fast-paced style influenced how modern Edmonton Oilers hockey and the league as a whole are played today.
The Oilers also hold several NHL records, including the highest-scoring team seasons during their prime. This legacy cements Edmonton Oilers history as a benchmark for excellence in professional hockey. Fans remain optimistic that with McDavid, Draisaitl, and a deep roster, Edmonton Oilers hockey will soon deliver another championship era to the devoted supporters in Alberta.
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Edmonton Oilers Insider Reveals the Shocking Mount Rushmore Truth
In this eye-opening video, an Edmonton Oilers insider unveils the shocking truth behind the franchise's Mount Rushmore, challenging conventional wisdom about the team's legendary figures. Delving deep into the history of the Oilers, this insider reveals surprising selections and controversial omissions that will leave fans re-evaluating their lists of the team's all-time greats.
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