Hockey Canada issues statement responding to Wayne Gretzky rumor online

Earlier today, a rumor circulated on social media claiming that Hockey Canada President Katherine Henderson had blocked Wayne Gretzky from entering Team Canada’s dressing room before last Sunday’s gold medal game.

The story appears to have originated from former NHL player Mike Commodore, who said on a Flames Nation podcast that Gretzky wanted to motivate the team but was allegedly denied access by Henderson.

The rumor gained traction after Ryan Whitney of Spittin’ Chiclets discussed it online, though he downplayed its significance, calling it “a big nothing burger.”

In reality, it’s doubtful that a Gretzky-led pep talk would have changed much. Many players on Team Canada are too young to have seen Gretzky in his NHL or national team days.

Plus, the team performed exceptionally well in the gold medal game, showing they didn’t need extra motivation.