Gordie Howe launched his professional ice hockey career in 1946, beginning a tenure with the Detroit Red Wings that lasted twenty-five seasons. Over a career spanning six decades, the Canadian athlete established himself as a dominant force in the National Hockey League and the World Hockey Association, eventually recording 1,000 career goals in professional play.
Early Development and Minor Leagues
Born in 1928 in Floral, Saskatchewan, Howe was the son of Albert and Katherine Howe. After moving to Saskatoon, he began organized hockey at age eight. By 1943, he attended a New York Rangers training camp in Winnipeg but opted to return home. In 1944, Detroit Red Wings scout Fred Pinkney signed him to a contract. Following a stint with the Omaha Knights in the United States Hockey League where he tallied 48 points in 51 games, Howe moved to the NHL level.
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Howe debuted with the Red Wings on October 16, 1946, at age 18. He initially wore number 17 before switching to number 9. During his time in Detroit, he secured six Hart Memorial Trophies and won the Stanley Cup four times. Between 1952 and 1963, he claimed the Art Ross Trophy six times, including consecutive wins in 1952, 1953, and 1954, and again in 1957 and 1963.
Professional Longevity and WHA Career
After retiring in 1971, Howe returned to the ice to compete alongside his sons, Mark and Marty, for the Houston Aeros in the World Hockey Association. He later played for the New England Whalers and rejoined the NHL with the Hartford Whalers for the 1979–80 season. At age 52, he became the oldest person to play in an NHL game, having competed in all 80 games that season.
Legacy and Records
He finished his NHL career with 801 goals, 1,049 assists, and 1,850 points. Known for his physical style, he became the namesake of the 'Gordie Howe hat trick', which includes a goal, an assist, and a fight in a single game.
Fast facts
- Born: 1928, Floral, Saskatchewan
- Died: 2016, Sylvania
- NHL Debut: 16 October 1946
- Hart Memorial Trophy wins: 1952, 1960
- Art Ross Trophy wins: 1952, 1953, 1954, 1957, 1963
- Canada's Walk of Fame inductee: 2000
Questions readers ask
How many decades did Gordie Howe play professional hockey?
He competed in professional hockey across six different decades, from the 1940s through the 1990s.
What is a Gordie Howe hat trick?
It is a performance consisting of a goal, an assist, and a fight by a player in the same game.
Achievements
- Hockey Hall of Fame
- Officer of the Order of Canada
- Canada's Sports Hall of Fame