EDMONTON, AB - When Paul Coffey talks, you listen.

That's the reality for the four-time Stanley Cup Champion and three-time Norris Trophy winner, who ended an illustrious NHL career with 396 goals, 1135 assists and 1531 points.

It's also the reality for the 24 Oilers prospects in Edmonton participating in Development Camp. On Tuesday, Coffey took the reins with the defencemen, directing drills which included puck retrievals, pivoting and point shots.

It left an indelible mark on some of the rearguards who have yet to meet one of the greatest defencemen of all-time.

Video: CAMP RAW | Cooper Marody

"I've never met him before but right when you meet the guy, it's unbelievable," said defenceman Phil Kemp. "He's a legend in the game. An Oilers legend. When you're listening to him, you're just trying to soak up everything you can. You try to be a sponge."

Surely, the players were making mental notes of everything Coffey had to say. There was no shortage of advice he provided.

"He preaches things like stick positioning, skate positioning, hips, keeping your body up, keeping the puck on your forehand, following through on your passes, stepping into passes and stuff like that," said Kemp.

"He has a wealth of knowledge for the game. It's awesome to be here and awesome to learn from him."

Some players have a history with the former Oiler. Matthew Cairns was coached by Coffey in midget with the Toronto Marlboros AAA squad.

"My dad met him when he was a little kid," said Michael Kesselring. "I've watched his highlights and stuff like that. That was a cool experience."

Even the forwards revere Coffey.

"That's a guy with a lot of credibility," said Cooper Marody. "When he's talking, you shut up and hear what he has to say. It's huge for us and we really enjoy having him out there."