This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 7/29/2017
As early as age 9, Wayne Gretzky was nicknamed the next hockey messiah, snapping photographs with the likes of Gordie Howe & placing the groundwork for what would be quite the shoes to fill. Not only did Gretzky deliver, but some sports enthusiast believe he may be the best athlete ever, not only in the history of hockey. Although not the most physically gifted, he would translate any limitation into unmatched production. No athlete has dominated his or her sport in such an extended manner the way Gretzky did. If you were to take away Gretzky's career goals of 894 (all-time high), The Great One would still remain the all-time points leader, 76 ahead of Mark Messier, purely off his assist alone. While Gretzky made an impact everywhere he played, Los Angeles may have been the most profound. Many credit Gretzky's arrival with putting non-traditional U.S. hockey markets on "the NHL map" as the Kings saw a noticeable spike in popularity, which many believe lead to the expansion of the Anaheim Ducks & San Jose Sharks. While jerseys from Gretzky's playing days are highly sought after, just like his rookie card, high grade examples remain extremely difficult to obtain & command a premium in the market. Offered here is the "perfect Gretzky" receiving an extremely elusive post 1985 MEARS A-10 rating. Dating back to the 1990 season, a year which The Great One racked up 143 points while securing another Ross Trophy with the efforts of this size 54 home Kings jersey featuring light use, one game is presumed. Featuring a double Velcro patch measuring 2 ½” x ¾” stacked on each other, proper embroidery with the zig-zag sewing pattern to the outer edges of the swatch & fight strap this gamer checks all the boxing leading to a perfect grade from mears. Authenticated by MEARS authentication with a full letter of authenticity & grading of a perfect A-10.