Best Stick Handlers in Edmonton Oilers History

The Best Stick Handlers in Edmonton Oilers History

The Edmonton Oilers have had no shortage of talented players throughout their history, but some stand out for their incredible stick handling abilities. As the team continues its 2022-23 season, let's take a look back at some of the best stick handlers ever to don the iconic Oilers sweater.

Wayne Gretzky

No list of the greatest Oilers stick handlers would be complete without "The Great One" himself. Wayne Gretzky revolutionized the game with his uncanny on-ice vision and puck control skills. His ability to control the puck while moving at top speed, maneuver through traffic, and thread impossible passes made him nearly impossible to defend. Gretzky dtill holds dozens of NHL records, many thanks to his wizardry with the stick.

Mark Messier

While not as skilled as Gretzky in the puck handling department, Mark Messier was an incredibly physical player with deceptive hands. He used his large frame to shield the puck from opponents and bought time and space to make slick passes or rifle shots on goal. Messier was the heart and soul leader during the Oilers' Stanley Cup dynasty years.

Connor McDavid

The Oilers' current captain and top player, Connor McDavid, carries on the tradition of supremely talented stick handlers. His blazing speed couples with cat-like reflexes, allowing him to control the puck while skating at full velocity. McDavid routinely leaves defenders flat-footed with his arsenal of dekes and dangles. He has some of the softest hands in the NHL today.

Ryan Smyth

Beloved Oilers winger Ryan Smyth made his living camping out in front of the opposition's net. His stick handling talents focused mainly on deflecting point shots, tipping passes, and batting home rebounds. Smyth had a knack for getting his stick blade on any puck near the crease thanks to excellent hand-eye coordination. Though not a dangler, Smyth could wreck havoc with the biscuit.

Stick Handling Secrets

Controlling the puck so adeptly requires tremendous practice, skill, and natural abilities. Let's break down what makes the best stick handlers so special:

Soft Hands

Supple wrists and fingers allow players like Gretzky and McDavid to cradle the puck on their sticks. Soft hands gently cradle the puck, allowing for quicker releases for passing or shooting.

Strong Wrists

While soft hands cradle the puck, strong wrists help keep control. Powerful wrists make it hard for opponents to swipe the puck away while also enabling quick changes of direction.

Quick Feet

Fast, agile skating pairs nicely with slick hands. The ability to shift weight quickly and change speeds throws defenders off balance during one-on-one battles.

Puck Protection

The best stick handlers know how to use their bodies as shields to protect the puck from stick checks. Broad backs and rear ends keep the biscuit away from opponents.

Creativity

Flashy dekes like the "Gretzky sweep" require imagination and confidence to attempt. The very best stick handlers have a deep toolbox of puck tricks up their sleeves.

Practicing Stick Handling

Not everyone can reach the stratospheric puck handling levels of 99 or 97. However, with dedication and practice, players of all skill levels can improve. Here are some useful training tips:

Stickhandle Everywhere

Take a hockey ball or Green Biscuit with you and work on control. Stickhandle while walking, watching TV, doing chores - everywhere!

Master Fundamentals

Nail down basic moves like pushing the puck from side to side, the toe drag, and change of pace maneuvers first.

Go Slow

Stickhandle at slower speeds so your hands and feet get used to working in unison.

Get Creative

String moves together to complete more advanced techniques once the basics come easier.

Gear for Stick Handling

Using performance hockey gear can help take stick handling to the next level. Here is some great equipment to consider:

Composite Sticks

The flex and construction of today's composite sticks gives excellent puck feel and responsiveness.

Waxed Laces

After waxing to reduce friction, laces glide smoothly over the blade for better control.

Gloves

Fitted gloves promote fine motor control and dexterity for soft hands with the biscuit.

Sticks Weights

Attaching weight at the top of sticks helps build wrist strength for enhanced stick handling.

FAQs

Who is considered the greatest stick handler in Oilers history?

Wayne Gretzky is almost unanimously regarded as the best stick handler ever to play for the Oilers. His vision, puck control abilities, and arsenal of dekes made him nearly impossible for defenders to stop.

Does Connor McDavid have a case as the Oilers' best stick handler?

While McDavid has a long way to go to match Gretzky's career accomplishments, his current stick handling abilities are arguably on par with 99 in his prime. McDavid's combination of speed and soft hands gives him an edge.

What made Mark Messier such an effective stick handler?

While perhaps not as naturally gifted as Gretzky or McDavid, Messier used his large frame and physicality to shield the puck. This allowed him time to pass or shoot the puck effectively.

Who had the best hands around the net for the Oilers?

Ryan Smyth made his living with excellent hand-eye coordination to tip pucks and bang home rebounds close to the net. His quick stick earned many ugly garbage goals.