It's impossible for me to go back and put on that hockey sweater again.

Being captain means more in hockey than in any sport. You wear that 'C' on your sweater, and you have an obligation to lead. Messier was all about that.

I have great memories of my years in Edmonton and the players who were my teammates.

Nobody's a natural. You work hard to get good and then work to get better. It's hard to stay on top.

It's a great tribute to be joining such an elite group of players. I have great memories of my years in Edmonton, and the players who were my teammates. We were a tight bunch, and I'm honored that my contribution to the team will be celebrated in Oilers fashion.

We played pretty much from the cuff,