BJ MacDonald  BJ MacDonald is best known as Wayne Gretzky's
first right winger.  BJ actually joined the Oilers in 1973 when
the team was in the World Hockey Association. He spent 4 1/2
seasons with the WHA Oilers plus another 1 1/2 seasons with the
Indianapolis Racers. BJ always possessed a quick and accurate
shot but never really had a quality centerman to set him since
his junior days.  Until 1978-79 that is.  BJ spent a lot of time
on the right wing with a 17 year old phenom named Wayne Gretzky.
BJ posted 34 goals and 71 points but the two really clicked in
the playoffs. BJ had 8 goals and 18 points in 13 games as the
Oilers nearly captured the Avco Cup championship from the
Winnipeg Jets.  When the Oilers merged into the NHL in 1979,
they had already been assured that they could keep Gretzky, but
only would be able to keep a couple of others. One was goalie
Dave Dryden, while MacDonald was also protected.  NHLers liked
to slam WHA stars, including MacDonald. Vancouver Canucks scout
Larry Popein went on re