Which NHL records are held by Gordie Howe?
Gordie Howe holds several NHL records that might never be broken.
Detroit Red Wings legend Gordie Howe passed away on June 10, 2016. When he retired after the 1979-80 NHL season, he was the holder of a variety of NHL records. Since then, some of his records (including career goals and career points) have been broken. His influence on the game of hockey, however, makes his legacy immortal.
Howe is the holder of several NHL records and has accomplished several distinctions that might never be broken. Let’s take a look at the career of Howe and his many records.
- First all-time in games played (1,767)
- First all-time in games played with one team (1,687 with Detroit)
- With his son Mark, most points for a father and son duo (2,592)
- Tied for first with Chris Chelios in total NHL seasons played (26)
- First in total NHL and WHA combined seasons played (32)
- Most career NHL goals scored by a right wing (801)
- Most consecutive seasons with 20 or more goals (22)
- Oldest player in NHL history (52 years old in 1979-80)
- Most All-Star appearances (23)
- Most points with one franchise (1,789 with Detroit)
- Most goals with one franchise (786 with Detroit)
- First in era-adjusted goals (925)
- First in Red Wings history in point shares (215)
He is also in the top ten in numerous other categories. Let’s take a look at where he stands in other important categories.
- Second in career goals (801) to Wayne Gretzky (894)
- Ninth in career assists (1,049)
- Fourth in career points (1,850)
- Second in era-adjusted points (2,190)
- Second in era-adjusted assists (1,265)
- Second in career offensive point shares (186.6)
- Third in career point shares (217.1)
- Second in Red Wings history in assists (1,025)
- Third in Red Wings history in penalty minutes (1,643)
Howe would most likely be among the career leaders in even strength goals and power play goals had the NHL started counting them before the 1963-64 season. His influence on the game of hockey outweighs his records, which is saying a lot.
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