Scotty Bowman, the legendary NHL coach, once said that “there’s no better feeling than winning the Stanley Cup.” For Mark Messier, that feeling is one he knows all too well. The former NHL player and captain of the Edmonton Oilers and New York Rangers has had the privilege of playing in seven Stanley Cup Finals throughout his illustrious career.

Messier’s first taste of the Stanley Cup Finals came in 1983 when he was a member of the Edmonton Oilers. The team went on to win the championship that year, marking the first of five Stanley Cup victories for Messier with the Oilers. Reflecting on that first win, Messier recalls the excitement and adrenaline of playing on hockey’s biggest stage.

In 1990, Messier and the Oilers made it to the Stanley Cup Finals once again, this time facing off against the Boston Bruins. Despite a valiant effort, the Oilers fell short in their quest for back-to-back championships. Messier remembers the disappointment of losing in the Finals, but also the determination it fueled for future success.

After being traded to the New York Rangers in 1991, Messier led the team to their first Stanley Cup Finals appearance in 1994. The Rangers faced off against the Vancouver Canucks in a thrilling seven-game series that culminated in a championship win for Messier and his teammates. Reflecting on that victory, Messier recalls the overwhelming joy and sense of accomplishment that came with finally hoisting the Stanley Cup as a Ranger.

Messier’s final Stanley Cup Finals appearance came in 1997 with the Rangers, where they fell short to the Detroit Red Wings. Despite the loss, Messier looks back on his time in the Finals with gratitude and pride. He recognizes the hard work and dedication it takes to reach that level of competition and cherishes the memories made along the way.

As Messier reflects on his experiences in seven Stanley Cup Finals, he is grateful for the opportunities he had to compete at the highest level of professional hockey. The memories of those intense battles on the ice, the camaraderie with teammates, and the thrill of victory will always hold a special place in his heart. And while the Stanley Cup may be just a trophy, for Messier, it represents a lifetime of dedication and passion for the game he loves.