Ranking each decade’s best dynasty

1980s Edmonton Oilers

How were the 1980s Edmonton Oilers, who won four championships from 1984 to 1989 (and an additional one in 1990), built? They happen to have two of the best centers to ever play the game of hockey: Wayne Gretzky and Mark Messier. Gretzky was a bit of a luck signing for the Oilers, joining them in the WHA right before they joined the NHL. Messier was a high draft pick for the Oilers.

Of course, the Oilers were far more than just Gretzky and Messier. Defenseman Paul Coffey was an important part of their success. Bobby Orr was a pioneer for puck-moving defensemen who were involved on offense. Coffey proudly took the torch from Orr, winning two consecutive Norris Trophies (1984-85 and 1985-86). His talents were optimized thanks to having Gretzky on his team.

Edmonton also had a very underrated goaltender in Grant Fuhr. Because the Oilers were such a dominant offensive team, they often left Fuhr to fend for himself. He was very capable of doing so. Every center needs wings. The Oilers had two Hall of Fame wings in Jari Kurri and Glenn Anderson.

The NHL probably won’t see a run like the Oilers had. They forever changed the way the game of hockey was played. The Oilers forced the league to adjust to a higher scoring, and far more exciting, game.

Edmonton built their super team by having Gretzky and Messier fall in their laps. Funny how people will really want to play with really good players.

Honorable Mentions: Boston Celtics, Los Angeles Lakers, San Francisco 49ers

Next: 1990s Chicago Bulls