Who was the first NHL player to have his number retired?

The first NHL player to have his number retired was Wayne Gretzky, specifically the number 99. This historic event occurred on February 6, 2000, during a pre-game ceremony held by the Edmonton Oilers at Rogers Place. Gretzky's number retirement was a significant milestone in hockey history, as he is widely regarded as one of the greatest players of all time and played a pivotal role in popularizing the sport in Canada and beyond.

His incredible career achievements, including numerous scoring titles, Stanley Cup victories, and records that remain unmatched, solidified his legacy. Retiring his number was not only a tribute to his outstanding contributions to the game but also a recognition of his impact on the sport's culture and growth. The decision to retire his number encapsulated the respect and admiration the hockey community has for Gretzky, setting a precedent for other teams to honor their legends in a similar fashion.