Canadian · Floral, Saskatchewan · Born 31 March 1928Mr. Hockey — four Stanley Cups, six scoring titles and a career spanning five decades including games at age 52.
Gordon Howe was born in Floral, Saskatchewan in 1928. He played professional hockey in five different decades — the 1940s, 1950s, 1960s, 1970s and 1980s. He won four Stanley Cup championships with the Detroit Red Wings (1950, 1952, 1954, 1955). He won the Hart Trophy as MVP six times (1952, 1953, 1957, 1958, 1960, 1963) and the Art Ross Trophy as scoring champion six times. His combined NHL and WHA totals of 801 NHL goals and an additional 174 WHA goals give him 975 professional goals. He was named to the NHL All-Star team 21 times. His physicality — the Gordie Howe Hat Trick of a goal, an assist and a fight in the same game — combined with his skill made him impossible to categorise. He returned to professional hockey in his late 40s to play alongside his sons Mark and Marty in the WHA. He played one final NHL game for the Hartford Whalers in 1980 aged 52. He was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1972. He died in June 2016 aged 88. He is the only player in hockey history whose career simultaneously embodies brute physical intimidation and statistical scoring dominance at the highest level.
Becoming the NHL's all-time leading scorer and playing professional hockey for over three decades across multiple leagues.
He played in the NHL across five different decades — a longevity record never matched.
Did You Know?How They Played
Howe was renowned for his complete skill set, combining exceptional scoring ability with physical toughness and defensive responsibility. He possessed a powerful shot, excellent stickhandling, and remarkable durability that allowed him to play effectively well into his 40s. His ability to play both offense and defense, along with his willingness to fight when necessary, made him one of the most well-rounded players in hockey history.
Lasting Impact
Howe set the standard for longevity and excellence in professional hockey, inspiring generations of players with his work ethic and versatility. The term 'Gordie Howe hat trick' - a goal, an assist, and a fight in the same game - became part of hockey vernacular.
Career Honours
- Stanley Cup 4x
- Art Ross Trophy 6x
- Hart Trophy 6x
- NHL 75th Anniversary Team
- Hall of Fame (1972)
| Team | Period | GP | Goals |
|---|---|---|---|
| Detroit Red Wings | 1946–1971 | 1767 | 786 |
| Hartford Whalers | 1979–1980 | 80 | 15 |
Canadian Athletes