Gretzky Trade: They said it

Experts, historians and fans alike look back at August 9, 1988 as a significant date in the NHL's history. The Edmonton Oilers traded Wayne Gretzky, arguably the sport's greatest player, to the Los Angeles Kings in a five-player deal which also included three first-round picks and $15 million.

Below is a collection of comments from 1988 by hockey dignitaries and other sports figures regarding the trade:

Wayne Gretzky
"I didn't know it would carry this type of magnitude."

Cliff Fletcher, former Calgary Flames general manager
"It's going to have an unvelievable impact. Here you have a franchise that's been struggling for over 21 years -- since 1967. With Wayne Gretzky going there, it brings instant credibility, respect and notoriety."

Jimmy Carson, former NHL player
"I'll always be the answer to the trivia question: 'Who was traded for Wayne Gretzky?'"

Luc Robitaille, former NHL player
"Gretzky going to Los Angeles is the best thing that can happen to hockey. If you do well in Los Angeles, all of the United States will start to watch you."

Bruce McNall, former Los Angeles Kings owner
"I've got to do something radical to sell hockey in L.A. and there's no name in hockey like Wayne Gretzky."

Magic Johnson, former NBA player
"He belongs in L.A. He's the greatest. I'm definitely going to go get season tickets. Even if they never win a game, it will still be exciting to go now."

Peter Pocklington, former Edmonton Oilers owner
"I don't mind telling you that when Bruce McNall approached me and asked what it would take to get Wayne to L.A., I asked for the entire Kings franchise and an option on Jerry Buss' Lakers."