Fever's Caitlin Clark earns major praise from NHL legend

NHL Hall of Famer Wayne Gretzky is no stranger to setting records. After all, up until just a couple of months ago, he was the NHL's all-time leading scorer after having his record broken by Washington Capitals star Alex Ovechkin. Gretzky finished his 20-season career with 894 goals and quickly became the face of hockey. Much like Caitlin Clark has for the WNBA and women's sports as a whole.

The magnitude of Gretzky's records felt unbreakable. His skill level felt unmatched and he grew the sport of hockey single handily. Records are made to be broken and that is what keeps people watching and what grows the fandom. Young and new talent is always up and coming and the level of competition is consistently changing.

Gretzky went on to the New Heights podcast, hosted by the Kelce brothers, where he had high praise for Clark and her influence on athletes all over the world. Clark, although still a young and fresh talent, has similar qualities as Gretzky in the eyes of fans in terms of skill level at their respective sports and record setting expectations that brings.

Caitlin Clark has 'The Great One' tuning in

On his May 28 appearance with the Kelce brothers, Gretzky delved into generational talents and how they are consistently coming in and elevating the game. It is clearly evident that Clark is quickly on her way to GOAT status, regardless of how many championships she wins. WNBA numbers in every category have skyrocketed since her arrival. For one single athlete to elevate an entire major league sport is mind boggling.

"Look at Caitlin Clark, how she's just taken over the country. And for that matter - maybe the world - in how she's encouraged so many young girls now to participate in sports," he said.

Caitlin Clark is not only selling out arenas, but it should be acknowledged too how fans from all over the world travel into the states to watch her play live and in person. Gretzky himself had similar influence on young athletes and fans. He was generational himself and even years after no longer playing, he remains a popular sports figure. Clark is likely to have the same respect once her career is all said and done - no matter what her stats are or whether or not she was a part of a winning franchise.

"I just have so much respect for so many of these athletes that come along now, and as a fan, I just love it," Gretzky added.

Regardless of what athlete from what league is talking or what the original topic is, Clark somehow finds her way into the conversation. This is a direct result of what she has accomplished in her young career. She constantly has people talking in a positive light and gives the WNBA exposure. She has a long way to go, but is well on her way to being one of the most influential athletes ever, much like Gretzky accomplished with his work in the NHL.