In photos: The first day at Rogers Place in Edmonton

Wayne Gretzky and family briefly struggled against the curtain, but eventually it fell to re-unveil the iconic Wayne Gretzky statue at its new home at Rogers Place.

Not only does Wednesday mark the opening of a new NHL season, but also the first regular season NHL game that will be played at the brand new Rogers Place arena in Edmonton.

The Oilers take on the Flames at 10:00 ET on Sportsnet.

Not only that, but the Oilers also took the opportunity to unveil Wayne Gretzky’s statue and announce that he would be re-joining the franchise in an official capacity.

Photographer Daniel Wood is on the scene for Sportsnet, capturing the events of the day in the lead up to the big first game.

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Here are some photos to give you a taste of the action with more to come throughout the night. But make sure to follow Sportsnet on Instagram and sportsnetcanada on Snapchat for a full behind-the-scenes look at Opening Night at Rogers Place!

A photo posted by Sportsnet (@sportsnet) on

A photo posted by Sportsnet (@sportsnet) on

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Edmonton Oilers' longest season ticket holders, Fred and Agnes Lynch. (Daniel Wood)
Edmonton Oilers’ longest season ticket holders,
Fred and Agnes Lynch. (Daniel Wood)

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