Amid speculation that Wayne Gretzky could be close to joining Maple Leafs Sports & Entertainment in some type of executive capacity, The Great One has denied it.
In a text to Hockey Central Insider John Shannon, Gretzky said there is no truth to reports he has been offered a senior position within MLSE.
Gretzky grew up in the Greater Toronto Area and has often been linked to the Toronto Maple Leafs franchise both during and after his playing career.
However, Gretzky has never been involved with the Maple Leafs in any official capacity and has not been involved with an NHL team since he stepped down as coach of the Phoenix Coyotes in 2009.
Tim Leiweke — whom Gretzky was reportedly discussing the MLSE position with — was appointed president and CEO of MLSE in April and has a successful history in sports.
Previously, Leiweke was the president and CEO of the Anschutz Entertainment Group, which owns the Los Angeles Kings, Los Angeles Galaxy and part of the Los Angeles Lakers.
Leiweke famously helped recruit soccer superstar David Beckham to the Galaxy and reportedly tried convincing legendary NBA coach Phil Jackson to join the Toronto Raptors’ management team when he began his new role.
Many believe Gretzky will one day return to the NHL in some capacity, though the Hall of Famer has stated on multiple occasions that he is very happy with his life in retirement.