Originally Posted by billyb
Everyone's stats were inflated during that time. I have seen all of Yzerman's career and he was great, but his talents today, would be greatly deiminished, as well as Gretzke's.
Remember, the World Hockey Association was active from 1972- 1979, and many stars, including Bobby Hull went over to the WHA.
In 1974, six teams were added, and in 1979, when the WHA folded, the NHL picked up 4 more of their teams, 21 totaled. It wasn't until 1889 and later, when the Soviets, and other Europeans came into the league. Wayne had already gathered a vast majoity of his points.
I know Gretzke didn't start until '79, but you can see how the league was watered down when he started his career.
I do not want to take away anything from Gretzke, I have met him, talked to him, and he is a very nice guy.
But my vote, as best hockey player of that era, was Orr, who changed the style for defensemen, the offensive defense men.
I am also old enough to have seen Howe and Richard play, against teams that they played on a regular basis. Just six teams, best in North America, and they seen you often enough to know all your moves and how to play you.
Comparing Gretzke's stats to Ruth, Ruth would have had to play half of his career against minor league players to get a good comparison.
But on that note, was Gretzke dominate in the NHL for his time.......yes.
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