Gretzky named vice-chairman of Oilers Entertainment Group

Wayne Gretzky is returning to Edmonton as vice-chairman of the Oilers Entertainment Group.

Oilers owner Darryl Katz made the announcement Wednesday, saying Gretzky will be involved in all aspects of OEG business.

Gretzky himself stated he believes it's a great opportunity for him to get back in the game, that he's proud to involved with the Oilers, and excited to help bring the Stanley Cup back to Edmonton.

The Great One was the face of the Oilers' dynasty back in the 1980s, recording 1,669 of his all-time record 2,857 NHL points in an Edmonton jersey and helping the team win four Cups between 1984 and 1988.

He had not held an official position with any NHL club or the league itself since stepping down as Coyotes head coach and head of hockey operations in 2009. He was also recently named official ambassador of the league's centennial season, a role he will retain despite the new position.

The announcement was made following the unveiling of Gretzky's statue outside Rogers Place Wednesday afternoon, with the Oilers set to kick off a new season against rival Calgary later this evening.