Wayne Gretzky won eight consecutive Hart Trophies from 1980 to 1987. The Hart Memorial Trophy recognizes the NHL’s most valuable player, and Gretzky dominated the award during his prime with the Edmonton Oilers. His streak covered every award from the 1979–80 season through the 1986–87 season.
The run reflected more than goal scoring. Gretzky repeatedly led the league in points, assists, or both, while transforming the Oilers into one of hockey’s most explosive teams. He won the Hart unanimously for the 1981–82 season, when he produced 212 points, becoming the first NHL player to exceed 200 points in a season.
Gretzky’s streak ended in 1988, when Mario Lemieux won the award. Gretzky later reclaimed it in 1989, giving him nine Hart Trophies overall—the most in NHL history. The phrase “from 1980 to 1987” refers to award years, which correspond to eight consecutive seasons, not ten or nine separate trophies.