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Marty McSorley

Marty McSorley is a Canadian former professional ice hockey player and coach, born Martin James McSorley in Hamilton, Ontario.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 27, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Marty McSorley is a Canadian former professional ice hockey player and coach, born Martin James McSorley in Hamilton, Ontario. He played in the NHL from 1983 to 2000, won two Stanley Cups with the Edmonton Oilers, and later coached the Springfield Falcons in the AHL. His career is also widely associated with the 2000 assault conviction arising from an on-ice incident with Donald Brashear.

Playing career

McSorley played in the NHL for several teams from 1983 to 2000, appearing in 961 regular-season games and recording 359 career points. He was valued for his physical style, versatility, and role as a protector of star teammates, notably as a teammate of Wayne Gretzky with the Edmonton Oilers and Los Angeles Kings.

Stanley Cup success

He was part of the Edmonton Oilers teams that won the Stanley Cup in 1987 and 1988. His contributions were linked to the club's depth and toughness during its championship era.

2000 assault conviction

McSorley's career was overshadowed by an incident in February 2000 in which he struck Donald Brashear with his stick. He was suspended by the NHL and later convicted in British Columbia court of assault with a weapon.

Coaching and later work

After his NHL playing career, McSorley coached the Springfield Falcons in the American Hockey League from 2002 to 2004. He has also worked in hockey-related media and analysis.

Key facts

  • McSorley played 961 NHL regular-season games and recorded 359 career points.
  • He was known as an enforcer and as a teammate of Wayne Gretzky with the Edmonton Oilers and Los Angeles Kings.
  • He won Stanley Cups with Edmonton in 1987 and 1988.
  • In 2000, he was convicted of assault with a weapon after striking Donald Brashear with his stick.
  • He was born in Hamilton, Ontario, and is a Canadian citizen.
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Canadian context

McSorley was born in Hamilton, Ontario, and his career is part of Canadian hockey history, including his time with the Edmonton Oilers and later coaching in North American professional hockey.

Frequently asked questions

Who is Marty McSorley?
He is a Canadian former NHL player and coach best known for his physical style of play, his years with the Oilers and Kings, and his later assault conviction.
What teams did Marty McSorley play for?
He played for the Pittsburgh Penguins, Edmonton Oilers, Los Angeles Kings, New York Rangers, San Jose Sharks, and Boston Bruins.
How many Stanley Cups did he win?
He won two Stanley Cups as a player, both with the Edmonton Oilers in 1987 and 1988.
What is Marty McSorley known for off the ice?
He is known for the 2000 on-ice incident involving Donald Brashear, which led to an assault conviction and the end of his NHL career.
Did Marty McSorley coach after playing?
Yes. He was head coach of the Springfield Falcons in the American Hockey League from 2002 to 2004.

References

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Marty_McSorley
    Supports: Biographical details, NHL playing years, coaching role, and 2000 assault conviction.
  2. National Hockey League — https://www.nhl.com/player/marty-mcsorley-8449516
    Supports: Career statistics and NHL player profile.
  3. Hockey-Reference — https://www.hockey-reference.com/players/m/mcsorma01.html
    Supports: Birth date, birthplace, position, career totals, and Stanley Cup championships.
  4. ESPN — https://www.espn.com/nhl/news/2000/0925/777106.html
    Supports: Reporting on the criminal case and NHL suspension after the Brashear incident.