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THIS IS THE BEST NEWS WE COULD HOPE FOR: Patrick LaForge Makes Triumphant Return to the Edmonton Oilers Organization in a New Role
EDMONTON, AB — In a moment that has sent shockwaves of joy through the Valley and the broader NHL community, Edmonton Oilers owner Daryl Katz has officially confirmed what many fans have only dreamed about: the return of Patrick LaForge to the Oilers organization.
But this time, it’s not as president.
LaForge, the influential former president and CEO who helped elevate the Oilers brand to new heights during his tenure from 2000 to 2015, is returning in a newly created executive advisory role focused on heritage, innovation, and strategic growth. The news broke earlier today in a press conference at Rogers Place, where Katz and Oilers Entertainment Group (OEG) leadership shared the announcement to thunderous applause.
“Patrick LaForge’s legacy with this organization is undeniable,” Katz said. “From the 2003 Heritage Classic to the shaping of the Rogers Place vision, he has always been a forward-thinker. Bringing him back now, at a time when our team is thriving and our brand is stronger than ever, is the best news we could hope for.”
A Legacy Revisited
Patrick LaForge first joined the Edmonton Oilers at a time when the team was facing both financial and competitive challenges. Over his 15-year leadership, he helped turn the Oilers into not only a financially stable franchise but also a key player in the broader development of downtown Edmonton, thanks to the vision and execution of the Ice District.
He is perhaps best remembered for orchestrating the 2003 Heritage Classic, the NHL’s first outdoor regular-season game — a landmark event that laid the groundwork for the wildly successful Winter Classic series. That single event shifted how the NHL marketed itself, not just in Canada but across North America.
A New Chapter, A New Vision
In his new role as Senior Executive Advisor for Legacy and Innovation, LaForge will not be overseeing day-to-day operations but will act as a strategic bridge between the organization’s storied past and its ambitious future. His focus will include mentoring rising executives, advising on fan engagement strategy, and supporting long-term community initiatives.
“I’m honoured and thrilled to be returning to the Oilers family,” LaForge said in a brief but emotional statement. “This organization means everything to me, and I believe our best days are still ahead.”
Sources inside OEG suggest that LaForge’s return has been in quiet development for several months, with both Katz and current CEO Stew MacDonald involved in crafting a role that would both respect LaForge’s legacy and leverage his unique talents in a modern context.
Community Reaction
The reaction on social media was swift and overwhelmingly positive. Fans, former players, and media figures expressed excitement over the return of a figure many credit with saving the franchise in its darkest days.
“Patrick LaForge returning to the Oilers is like Wayne Gretzky putting the skates back on,” tweeted one longtime fan. “You just know good things are coming.”
Looking Ahead
As the Oilers continue to dominate headlines on the ice — led by superstars like Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl — the addition of a legacy leader like LaForge behind the scenes sends a clear signal: the organization is building not just for today, but for the next generation of greatness.
If this is the start of a new era for the Oilers, it’s one rooted in both rich history and bold vision. And with Patrick LaForge back in the fold, fans have every reason to believe that even bigger things are coming.
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