Edmonton Oilers' Jordan Eberle, right, congratulates Sam Gagner on his third-period goal finished the game with 4 goals and 4 assists, tying Wayne Gretzky and Paul Coffey for the most points in a game in Oilers history. (John Ulan/Canadian Press)
It's accurate to say that Sam Gagner's play Thursday night against the Chicago Blackhawks was an inspired performance.
And the inspiration for his eight-point performance was clear, the Edmonton Oilers centre told Gord Stellick and Tim Wharnsby on Hockey Night in Canada Radio on Friday.
"When I had six points, guys were talking to me about how [Wayne] Gretzky’s [franchise] record is eight, and the only thing going through my head was 'What would Gretzky be thinking at this stage?' and it was, you know, keep going, and the reason he was so good for so long is because he never set limits and those were my thoughts last night," Gagner told Stellick and Wharnsby. "I just wanted to play in the same way and not take any shortcuts."
His teammates had a significant impact on his night, he said.
"I owe a lot to my teammates and everyone that was involved," Gagner said, pointing out some of them even gave up shifts so he could continue racking up points.
Gagner has become the third Oiler to accomplish this feat, and Wayne Gretzky and Paul Coffey were quick to welcome him to their club.
"I got a text from Gretzky, which is unbelievable," Gagner said. "He’s the greatest player of all time and to get a text from him … it's just so classy for him to do.
"And actually Paul Coffey called me this morning. For them to take the time out to call me after a game like last night … it's just so special and it shows a lot about the kind of people they are."
Those watching the game would have seen it was locker room attendant, Joey Moss, who was first to congratulate Gagner. Gagner said he lingered longer than usual to chat with him in the locker room last night.
"Since I’ve been here, [Joey's] become one of my best friends," he told HNIC radio.
"I think the last three years especially we’ve had a tough time as a team, and he’s been the one constant where you can come to the rink and get a smile through Joey … he’s just an unbelievable person and a lot of fun to be around."
Despite last night's celebrations, Gagner said, he remains focused on the remainder of the season.
"It was a great night last night and I think our focus now is just to keep it going … Hopefully all the stars align and something crazy happens and we can finally play playoff hockey for the first time in a long time."
