NHL legend Wayne Gretzky turns the spotlight on the greatest hockey figures that influenced his life, with a new book called "99: Stories of the Game."
Gretzky says the book is a chance for him to share his love for the people, cities, teams and traditions he admires in the NHL.
"It's a nice read for kids to learn about the National Hockey League," Gretzky told CTV's Your Morning on Tuesday. He added that he embraced the chance to write about his favourite players like Gordie Howe, Jean Beliveau, Mark Messier and Mario Lemieux, because they inspired him throughout his career.
"That's what excited me as a kid and that's what motivated me to make the National Hockey League," he said.
Gretzky recently rejoined the Edmonton Oilers organization as an executive, and has mended his relationship with the league in time for its 100th anniversary season, which opens next year. "The Great One" will serve as an ambassador for the league throughout the celebrations.
Gretzky says he's thrilled to have been part of the league's storied past.
"The history of our game is one of the greatest things we have," he said.
