- Jan 22, 2007
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Unfortunately, the internet, social media and streaming video content weren't around when Gretzky entered the league. As a fan in the States, my exposure to Gretzky was limited. I read all about him and "followed him" in the box scores and highlights (when available) but only saw him up close when he played the Flyers and the games were televised locally.
I think this lack of exposure added to his mystique in a phantomish way. Here was a kid absolutely destroying the NHL offensively and you "heard" all about this legend but rarely had the chance to watch him perform. With today's technology, a player like Gretzky would dominate the sports world, globally. No player (in any sport) dominates their peers offensively the way Gretzky did. Early Tiger Woods maybe comes to mind. Think of the amount of hype athletes like Lebron, Brady, Crosby, McDavid, etc. receive today and magnify that by 10, based on the highlights and sheer dominance.
I think this lack of exposure added to his mystique in a phantomish way. Here was a kid absolutely destroying the NHL offensively and you "heard" all about this legend but rarely had the chance to watch him perform. With today's technology, a player like Gretzky would dominate the sports world, globally. No player (in any sport) dominates their peers offensively the way Gretzky did. Early Tiger Woods maybe comes to mind. Think of the amount of hype athletes like Lebron, Brady, Crosby, McDavid, etc. receive today and magnify that by 10, based on the highlights and sheer dominance.