There’s a certain charm to collecting game-worn jerseys—particularly when it involves a player like Adam Larsson, who often epitomizes the unsung hero of the NHL. This jersey, from Larsson’s third season with the Edmonton Oilers, represents more than just fabric and stitching; it’s a snapshot of a pivotal chapter in Oilers history.

This jersey was worn during the 2018-19 NHL regular season, in a year when the Oilers celebrated their 40th anniversary as a franchise. The orange home set, complete with the commemorative patch, paid homage to the team’s rich history—including their five Stanley Cups and six Hall of Famers who defined the dynasty era: Wayne Gretzky, Mark Messier, Paul Coffey, Jari Kurri, Glenn Anderson, and Grant Fuhr. It’s as much a tribute to the players as it is to the passionate fanbase that has stood by the team through thick and thin. Bob Nicholson, CEO of the Oilers Entertainment Group, summed it up perfectly: “The Oilers have existed for 40 years because of the fans, and this milestone is as much a celebration of them as it is of the team.”

Larsson himself was a player who arrived in Edmonton under dramatic circumstances. Traded one-for-one for Taylor Hall—a blockbuster move that remains one of the most debated in recent memory—Larsson came in with big skates to fill. While he wasn’t the offensive force Hall was, Larsson brought stability and grit to the Oilers’ blue line, becoming a dependable presence in his five seasons with the team. This jersey, from his penultimate year in Edmonton, tells the story of a player who quietly but effectively did his job.

The jersey features wear characteristic of the hard minutes Larsson logged—a physical defender who wasn’t afraid to sacrifice his body for the team. As with all game-worn pieces, it carries the unique identifiers: the Edmonton Oilers Team Jersey Set Tag and the MeiGray Game Worn Jersey Serial # Tag, as well as a Letter of Authenticity from the Oilers Hockey Club. It’s proof that this jersey was more than just a uniform—it was part of the grind, sweat, and passion that is NHL hockey.

Larsson’s time in Edmonton came to an end in July 2021, when he was selected by the Seattle Kraken in the Expansion Draft. While Oilers fans may have wished for a different ending, his contributions to the team won’t be forgotten. This jersey is a reminder of his steady presence on the ice during a transitional period for the Oilers—an era defined by its struggles, but also by its moments of promise.

For me, as a collector, this piece isn’t just about the Oilers or Larsson. It’s about the journey of being a hockey fan: celebrating the greats, mourning the trades, and finding joy in the moments that only sports can provide. Plus, let’s be honest—there’s something beautifully ironic about a hippy collecting jerseys from a sport as rugged as hockey. But here we are, one orange-threaded memory at a time.

Game-Worn Jersey
Edmonton Oilers
2018/2019 NHL Season
Orange Set #3 – MeiGray R02358
Adidas Adizero
Made In Canada – Size 58