I grew up near Detroit and assumed that everyone knew what a Gordie Howe hat trick was. Then I moved to New Jersey and discovered that some people had never heard of it. It's simple: a goal, an assist and a fight, all in one game. There's also the natural Gordie Howe hat trick, in which all three happen in succession.
I like the idea of keeping this stat (though the NHL doesn't officicially do it) because it recognizes that most of the best hockey players are skilled scorers and strong enough to back up what they're doing if challenged. And I'm not talking about crap sucker punches and headshots. Those ARE NOT fights. And besides, most of the guys doing that aren't scoring a whole heck of a lot anyway.
Interestingly, Gordie Howe only had one of his namesakes (as far as I know anyway). But because he was known for his deft hands and hard fists, the name stuck. And I'm not sure who came up with the name either (maybe a Red Wings announcer? Ted Lindsey?)
Currently, I believe Brendan Shanahan, former Wing now with the Rangers, has the most GHHs with seven. Which is fitting. Shanny, along with Stevie Yzerman, exemplify everything that is great about hockey: class, skill, determination, grit and humor.
OK, have to go get ready for the MSU-UM game. Go Sparties! Have a good weekend! And kudos to Brian Leetch. It's about time his blue number 2 went to the rafters in the Garden.
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