Edmonton — On Thursday, Prime Minister Mark Carney stepped onto the ice with the Edmonton Oilers as the NHL team geared up for a game against the Western Conference-leading Winnipeg Jets.
Carney, donning No. 24, assumed the role of Canada’s 24th Prime Minister on March 14, following his victory in the Liberal leadership race, succeeding Justin Trudeau.
The 60-year-old Carney grew up in Edmonton during the Oilers’ legendary 1980s era.
He mentioned during the Oilers’ journey to the Stanley Cup final last year that his passion for the team remains strong. Numerous photos circulating on social media feature him in Oilers apparel, from jerseys to a Connor McDavid “McJesus” shirt.
Carney has also played hockey at the varsity level, serving as a third-string goaltender at Harvard and co-captain of the Oxford University Blues hockey team.
While at Harvard, he was teammates with former Oilers general manager Peter Chiarelli.
Carney’s visit to Edmonton was also for a meeting with Alberta Premier Danielle Smith.