Oh, in the heat of action he could get on a referee's case or find an uncomplimentary word or two for opponents occasionally. He was the real article. Unlike some sports superstars, whose public image disguises the private life of a social rattlesnake, what you see is what you get. Two peewees who've played a minor game before a Detroit Red Wings-Los Angeles Kings game won't get his autograph because they have to leave. The most intimidating hockey player who never threw a real punch could be tough off the ice.
Some athletes are at their best signing autographs when the cameras are rolling.
That hamburger commercial, in which Gretzky takes on Maple Leaf Mats Sundin in a contest of shooting pucks on goal from impossible angles, was well-conceived. He's had practice. The Great Gretzky was full of ones the world will never hear about. We welcome your feedback. All rights reserved.