Hall of Famer Chris Pronger, inducted in 2015, is a Stanley Cup champion, two-time Olympic gold medalist, and one of the few players to win both the Norris and Hart Trophies in the same season (1999–2000).
Now, Pronger serves as an NHL analyst for Amazon Prime Video’s “Prime Monday Night Hockey,” making his debut in October 2025. Recently, Pronger got into a lighthearted exchange with a fan online after sharing a motivational video on social media.
What Sparked the Back-and-Forth Between Chris Pronger and an NHL Fan?
Pronger shared a video on X (formerly Twitter) showing highlights of his playing days, big hits, physical battles, and relentless effort, along with a caption: “The game rewards those who aren’t afraid to get their hands dirty. You don’t hold back. You dig deep, take the hits, and give everything you’ve got until the final buzzer. That’s what separates players from competitors.”
His message seemed to subtly reference the Edmonton Oilers’ 9-1 loss to the Colorado Avalanche, suggesting that teams need more fight and passion.
A fan, posting under the name “RESCUE ABANDONMENT (RA)”, replied to the video with a sarcastic jab: “Wish you would’ve stayed in EDMONTON the rest of your career!!! MORE SUCCESS would’ve resulted for you I believe. Can’t believe you bounced around the LEAGUE as much as you did. WHAT A JOKE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! GO FLAMES! GO OILERS! GO FLYERS!!!!”
The fan was referring to Pronger’s short but unforgettable run with the Oilers in the 2005–06 season. When he led the team to the Stanley Cup Final with a team-best 21 points in 24 playoff games, he only requested a trade that summer. His departure didn’t sit well with fans, turning him into “Public Enemy No. 1” in Edmonton.
Ironically, Pronger won the Stanley Cup the very next year with the Anaheim Ducks. Pronger didn’t hold back, firing back with humor: “LOL success? Maybe take a closer look chum. Enjoy your Saturday. See you on Monday.”
The fan replied again, acknowledging Pronger’s Cup win and reminiscing about the old-school toughness of the game, saying: “LORD STANELY the following year, yeah, that hurt those of us cheering for the OILERS. WHAT A BEAST!! Really miss the old style vicious D-men & proper slappers with a wooden stick. All GOALIES & D by RULE to use WOODEN STICKS is a campaign I implore you to promote. RESPECT…”
Even nearly two decades later, it’s clear some Edmonton fans still haven’t forgotten or forgiven Chris Pronger’s departure right after taking the Oilers to the brink of a championship.
