“I have tremendous respect for the coaching fraternity and for the art of coaching, I don’t take it lightly. I understand the benefit of experience.

“But I have a lot of experience in this game and in winning. I’m not 32. I’m 52. There’s a little bit of water under the bridge. I’ve learned a lot. My experience shouldn’t be discounted or under-appreciated, either.”

-Mark Messier. More from and on Messier by Larry Brooks of the NY Post.