Oilers History: Gretzky Trade marked the end of an era in Edmonton and the NHL

Today marks the 25th anniversary of the day the Edmonton Oilers decided to trade Wayne Gretzky to the Los Angeles Kings. To this day, most refer to it as a sale as opposed to trade but in the end, the distinction really doesn't matter. Regardless of how or why, trading away the greatest player in the history of team sports, signalled the end of the line for one of the finest groups of players to have ever been assembled.

Oilers History: 1988 Stanley Cup Final - Edmonton vs Boston (Game Two)

Despite playing far from their best hockey during Game One of the 1988 Stanley Cup Final, the Edmonton Oilers still found a way to jump out to an early 1-0 series lead over the Boston Bruins. While the B’s were coming off an emotional seven game series win over the New Jersey Devils, Edmonton had lost just two games through the the first three rounds of the playoffs.

Oilers History: Battle of Alberta - 1988 Smythe Division Final (Game Four)

With the Edmonton Oilers heading into Game Four of their 1988 Smythe Division Final against the Calgary Flames with a commanding 3-0 lead, it was no longer a question of whether or not they could avenge their heart-breaking Game Seven loss from 1986. The question was could Wayne Gretzky and company pull off the four game sweep of the President Trophy winners?

Oilers History: Battle of Alberta - 1988 Smythe Division Final (Game One)

There have been a number of great "Battle of Alberta" playoff games throughout the years between the Edmonton Oilers and Calgary Flames. While the 1991 seven game classic, which Edmonton won on a seeing-eye slap shot from Esa Tikkanen, likely sits atop the list as the best of the bunch, it was the1988 series that holds a special spot in the hearts of many Oiler fans. The dismantling of the President Trophy winning Flames, during their second round series, ranks among the most satisfying victories in the storied history of the Edmonton Oilers franchise.