TSN.ca Staff
2/11/2006 9:13:41 PM
As Wayne Gretzky was putting the Phoenix Coyotes through a 40 minute session on Saturday, TSN was informed by a source close to the Coyotes organization that last Monday afternoon Gretzky was contacted by New Jersey Police and informed about the charges against Rick Tocchet and the fact that his wife Janet would be questioned as part of the investigation.
Shortly after that, Gretzky was said to have phoned Tochett to find out what was going on and according to the source that was the conversation between Tocchet and Gretzky that was recorded on Police wiretap. This contradicts earlier reports that suggested Gretzky may have had prior knowledge of the alleged gambling ring.
Following Saturday's practice, Gretzky reiterated his stance.
''Well, um, obviously it has been a difficult few days but as I said the other night I talked about it, it's a dead issue now. I remain supportive for my friend and obviously my wife. In saying that I'm just going to get ready for the game tomorrow night and get ready to go over and win a gold medal Sunday night. Other than that, as I said the other night, I have no involvement. I'm not in it and it's unfortunate that it had to transpire. I appreciate everyone's help and kindness and life goes forward.''
While the Canadian Olympic Association says Gretzky won't be a distraction for Team Canada at the Olympics, International Ice Hockey Federation President Rene Fasel says he hopes 'The Great One' will address the media in Torino and answer questions on the alleged gambling ring.
2/11/2006 9:13:41 PM
As Wayne Gretzky was putting the Phoenix Coyotes through a 40 minute session on Saturday, TSN was informed by a source close to the Coyotes organization that last Monday afternoon Gretzky was contacted by New Jersey Police and informed about the charges against Rick Tocchet and the fact that his wife Janet would be questioned as part of the investigation.
Shortly after that, Gretzky was said to have phoned Tochett to find out what was going on and according to the source that was the conversation between Tocchet and Gretzky that was recorded on Police wiretap. This contradicts earlier reports that suggested Gretzky may have had prior knowledge of the alleged gambling ring.
Following Saturday's practice, Gretzky reiterated his stance.
''Well, um, obviously it has been a difficult few days but as I said the other night I talked about it, it's a dead issue now. I remain supportive for my friend and obviously my wife. In saying that I'm just going to get ready for the game tomorrow night and get ready to go over and win a gold medal Sunday night. Other than that, as I said the other night, I have no involvement. I'm not in it and it's unfortunate that it had to transpire. I appreciate everyone's help and kindness and life goes forward.''
While the Canadian Olympic Association says Gretzky won't be a distraction for Team Canada at the Olympics, International Ice Hockey Federation President Rene Fasel says he hopes 'The Great One' will address the media in Torino and answer questions on the alleged gambling ring.