By the Numbers: How Ales Hemsky Helped Define #83 in NHL History
In the long history of the NHL, the number “83” rarely stood out on a scoresheet until a creative, soft-handed winger from Pardubice arrived in Alberta. Ales Hemsky didn’t just pick a jersey number; he gave it a soul. During an era of major transition for the Edmonton Oilers, Hemsky (drafted #13 overall in 2001) became the face of the franchise's offense. While he eventually moved on to Ottawa, Dallas, and Montreal, his identity is forever tied to Oil Country.
Peak Performance and the ‘06 Stanley Cup Run
Ales Hemsky really hit his stride during the 2005-06 season, putting up a career-best 77 points in 81 games. But stats only tell half the story. His real legacy was born during the Oilers' wild underdog run to the ’06 Stanley Cup Finals. In the opening round against a massive Detroit Red Wings team, Hemsky cemented himself as an Edmonton legend. In Game 6, he tucked home two huge third-period goals—the second being the series-winner with only 66 seconds left on the clock. That goal didn't just knock out the top seed; it essentially ended Steve Yzerman’s career and proved that the kid in the number “83” jersey could handle the brightest lights.
Cool Fact: On January 4, 2003—in his 26th NHL game—rookie Ales Hemsky scored his first career goal against the Montreal Canadiens.
Consistency Amidst the Copper and Blue
Although injuries seemed to slow Hemsky down (e.g., shoulder), his numbers in Edmonton still command respect. Over 652 games with the Oilers, he racked up 142 goals and 335 assists for a total of 477 points. That’s good enough for eleventh on the team's all-time scoring list—a heavy achievement when you realize he’s rubbing shoulders with Hall of Famers from the 1980s dynasty. Hemsky was the team’s leading scorer in multiple seasons (e.g., 2006), often serving as the lone offensive threat on a roster that was constantly changing.
Cool Fact: On March 21, 2012, Ales Hemsky recorded his first career NHL hat trick; four points (6–3 win).
83: A Lasting Legacy for Eighty-Three
When Ales Hemsky officially retired in 2020, he had 845 NHL games, 572 points, and 174 goals under his belt. Today, seeing number “83” on a jersey in Edmonton isn't just a fashion choice; it’s a tribute to a player who served as the bridge between the glory of the past and the excitement of the modern era.