Mark Messier has confirmed the reports stating he has taken on a new role with the Edmonton Oilers. Messier now serves as an “advisor or consultant” to the Oilers, according to a recent interview seen on the Oilers’ website.
Here’s what Messier had to say about his new role:
“I am available for anything that they need me to do or talk about. For example, just coming in today and lending some of my experiences as a captain with the coaches here and the organization. Any kind of way that I can help with the players, with the coaches and with decisions. I just told (Kevin Lowe) and (Craig MacTavish) that I would be available 24/7 for whatever they needed me to do. I am looking forward to taking this into the next generation of these kids and turning it around.”
The Oilers have struggled the last several years despite numerous top picks and a wealth of immense talent. Is management to blame? Messier says no.
“It takes a lot of courage. It’s been a tough few years here. It takes a lot of heart, it takes a lot of courage and it takes a lot of belief to grind your way through it in the lean years here. In my opinion, and of course I would probably get lots of arguments, that they have the right people in place.”
That’s a stance which is going to be criticized. The Oilers have drafted a ton of talent, but to date they’ve been unable to assemble a team capable of competing in the NHL. At the very least, Messier should be able to dish out a ton of hockey knowledge and advice for all of the youngsters in Edmonton, but will he be able to assist the front office?
It’ll be interesting to see just how involved Messier’s role with the team is once things get rolling.
