The Athletic explains why the Edmonton Oilers will wear their jersey numbers in 2024–25.
In the ever-evolving landscape of professional sports, jersey numbers often hold much more significance than just a means of identification on the ice or field. For the Edmonton Oilers, a team with a rich history and a passionate fanbase, jersey numbers are not just a numerical identifier but a symbol of identity, tradition, and legacy. The 2024–25 season marks a special chapter for the Oilers, as they’ve decided to wear their jersey numbers in a new way, and the move is set to honor both their storied past and their commitment to shaping the future of the franchise.
This decision, which was explained in-depth by The Athletic, reflects the evolving culture within the organization. The choice to wear their jersey numbers differently in 2024–25 is not a decision made lightly. It is a symbolic gesture that reflects on the history of the team, the values it holds, and the direction in which it is headed.
But why is this change happening? What does it mean for the Edmonton Oilers, their fans, and the NHL as a whole? In this article, we’ll explore the reasoning behind this decision, the history of the team, and what it symbolizes for the Oilers as they approach a new season.
A Tradition Steeped in History
The Edmonton Oilers, founded in 1972, have a rich history that spans several decades, with multiple championships, legendary players, and unforgettable moments. From their dominant 1980s era, led by Wayne Gretzky, Mark Messier, and Jari Kurri, to more recent years where the team has boasted top-tier talents like Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl, the Oilers have been at the forefront of NHL excellence.
Throughout this history, the players who donned the blue and orange jerseys established their legacies. The numbers worn by these athletes became synonymous with their greatness. Whether it’s Gretzky’s iconic number 99 or Messier’s leadership with number 11, the Oilers’ jersey numbers became a symbol of success. Each number on the ice tells a story and carries an emotional weight that transcends the sport.
However, there was also a desire to balance that storied history with the changing face of modern hockey. While the Oilers’ past has shaped who they are today, there is an acknowledgment that the future of the team is just as important. The decision to wear jersey numbers in a new way for the 2024–25 season represents a shift in how the Oilers are choosing to honor both their past and present while adapting to the future.
The Meaning Behind the New Look
The move to change how jersey numbers are worn by the Oilers in the 2024–25 season is both a celebration of their legacy and a modern touch on an age-old tradition. According to insights shared by The Athletic, the change comes with the aim of honoring past players and creating a fresh, exciting approach to team branding.
- Honoring Past Legends By altering how jersey numbers are displayed, the Oilers aim to pay tribute to the players who helped shape the franchise’s history. The idea is not to replace or change the significance of the jerseys worn by iconic figures, but rather to integrate a new way of acknowledging these players and their contributions. This might include incorporating the number into a more symbolic role, such as adding a commemorative patch, special artwork on the jerseys, or subtle design changes that acknowledge the greats who wore those numbers.
The Oilers’ decision to wear their jersey numbers differently could involve nods to past legends, like Wayne Gretzky, who helped elevate the team to its dominant status in the 1980s. It could also recognize more recent stars, such as Connor McDavid, who is on his way to cementing his own legendary status. This act is meant to instill a sense of continuity within the organization—reminding current and future players of the rich history they are a part of, while at the same time pushing forward with new innovation.
- Symbolizing Unity and Community The new jersey number format also seems to be focused on fostering a deeper sense of unity and community within the team. As the Oilers continue to focus on building a strong team dynamic, altering the jersey numbers could serve as a tool to further strengthen team chemistry. Having a new way to identify players on the ice may help create a fresh sense of connection both on and off the rink.
The change could also serve to enhance the fan experience. As The Athletic points out, fans hold a strong connection to their favorite players’ numbers. Whether they wear jerseys of current stars or past legends, Oilers fans identify with the numbers, and this symbolic shift could serve to build a deeper emotional bond between the team and its supporters. Additionally, the change could be a nod to the evolving nature of hockey culture, highlighting a commitment to community engagement, fan interaction, and inclusivity.
- Innovation and Forward-Thinking The new approach to wearing jersey numbers also speaks to the Oilers’ broader focus on innovation. The team is positioning itself as a forward-thinking organization that isn’t afraid to break away from traditional methods in order to achieve success. In the modern era of the NHL, with player movement, high-powered offenses, and data analytics playing an increasingly larger role in shaping teams, the Oilers are looking to innovate—not just in how they play on the ice but in how they present themselves as a franchise.
The introduction of new jersey numbers could symbolize that the Oilers are embracing change and pushing the boundaries of what is possible. It could also serve as a reflection of the evolving team dynamic, one that prioritizes team identity over individual stardom, but still respects the legacy that the franchise has built.
The Significance of Jersey Numbers in Hockey Culture
In hockey, numbers are far more than just an identifier on the rink. Over the years, certain numbers have become iconic, synonymous with legendary players and unforgettable moments. For the Oilers, these numbers have played a huge role in the team’s cultural fabric.
Wayne Gretzky’s number 99, for example, is one of the most recognized numbers in all of sports. It’s not just a number on the back of a jersey, but a symbol of greatness. Mark Messier’s number 11 represents leadership and resilience, while Jari Kurri’s number 17 stands for the Finnish great’s contributions to the franchise. These are more than just numbers—they’re pieces of history that carry emotional weight for fans, players, and the city of Edmonton.
The decision to give special attention to the way these numbers are displayed in 2024–25 reflects the Oilers’ commitment to honoring this rich history. While the players wearing these jerseys today may not yet reach the heights of past legends, the new format gives them an opportunity to carry the torch forward, representing the team with pride and honor. The jersey numbers will continue to serve as a powerful symbol of unity and legacy, while evolving to meet the demands of a new era in the NHL.
The Impact of the Change on Players and Fans
For players, the decision to wear their jerseys in a new format might serve as a motivating factor. They are being asked not just to represent themselves, but to embrace a deeper connection to the team’s history. While the primary focus for any player is to perform on the ice, the symbolic weight of wearing a jersey number that ties them to past legends may push them to reach even greater heights.
For fans, the jersey number change will likely stir up excitement, nostalgia, and anticipation. The Oilers’ fanbase is known for being loyal and passionate, and the connection between fans and players is incredibly strong. This change could spark a renewed interest in the team’s legacy and create an opportunity for fans to engage with the franchise in new ways. Whether through special jersey releases, fan events, or commemorative merchandise, the alteration in jersey number format could become an exciting part of the Oilers’ branding.
The Future of the Edmonton Oilers and Their Jersey Numbers
As the Oilers head into the 2024–25 season, the change to how jersey numbers are worn represents more than just a cosmetic shift—it is a cultural statement. By honoring their history, celebrating the present, and embracing the future, the Oilers are positioning themselves to create a new era of success, both on and off the ice.
The decision to wear jersey numbers differently may ultimately serve to build a stronger, more unified team that not only represents the city of Edmonton but also continues the legacy of one of the NHL’s most storied franchises. While the new format is still in its infancy, it has the potential to shape the Oilers’ identity for years to come, giving fans and players alike something new to rally behind.
For the 2024–25 season, the Oilers will be more than just a hockey team—they will be a symbol of how the sport continues to evolve while respecting the legacy of its past. Wearing jersey numbers in a new way is just the beginning of what could be a defining chapter in the history of the franchise. Only time will tell what impact this change will have, but one thing is certain: the Edmonton Oilers are ready to write the next great chapter in their storied history.
