Normally we’d be closing in on the final push of the season. However, we’re in a different world. Last Word on Hockey is still going to look back at each date’s historical significance to the game. We’ll remember the moments that shaped the sport of hockey that happened on this day. Here’s our look at this date in hockey history for March 3rd, featuring Gordie Howe.
Today in Hockey History
Gordie Howe Night Held in Detroit
1959: The Red Wings honour Mr. Hockey in a special ceremony before the game. Howe is given a white station wagon with the license plate GH-9000. The best part is that Howe’s parents, Ab and Katherine Howe, appear out of the gift-wrapped car.
It’s the first time Howe’s parents have seen him play in his 13-year NHL career and Howe gets emotional. However, the Boston Bruins would spoil the night, as they rally for a 2-2 tie with the hosts.
Other Notable Events
1875: The first indoor hockey game occurs at Victoria Skating Rink in Montreal. Hockey had no set dimensions and was played outdoors before that. A wooden puck is introduced as well to replace a ball that could hurt players and fans.
1920: The Montreal Canadiens set the record for most goals in a game in a 16-3 rout of the Quebec Bulldogs. Harry Cameron and Newsy Lalonde each score four goals for the Habs.
1968: Canadiens great Jean Beliveau becomes the second player to get 1,000 career points. He scores a goal, but the Habs lose 5-2 to the Red Wings to join Howe in the 1000 point club.
The Toronto Maple Leafs send Frank Mahovlich, Pete Stemkowski and Garry Unger to Detroit. Norm Ullman, Floyd Smith and Paul Henderson go to Toronto.
1981: New York Islanders forward Mike Bossy gets 100 points with four goals and an assist in an 8-8 tie with the Edmonton Oilers.
1990: St. Louis Blues winger Brett Hull gets his first 100-point season in a 5-4 win over the Islanders. Brett and Bobby Hull become the first father and son to have 100 points in one season.
1992: Los Angeles Kings centre Wayne Gretzky gets his 13th straight 100-point season. Gretzky gets an assist in a 4-1 home win over the Philadelphia Flyers.
2004: Dallas Stars defenceman Teppo Numminen becomes the NHL’s all-time leader in games played by a blueliner born in Europe. The Finn plays in his 1,149th game in a 4-2 win over the Columbus Blue Jackets.
2018: Washington Capitals captain Alex Ovechkin gets his ninth 40-goal season in a 5-2 outdoor win over Toronto.
Happy Birthday to You
1949: Joey Johnston
1958: Al Secord
1963: Kelly Miller
1964: Bob Kudelski
1968: Brian Leetch
1977: Stephane Robidas
1984: Alexander Semin
