What is a Gordie Howe Hat Trick? The Ultimate Hockey Trifecta
Toronto, January 10, 2026 – The Gordie Howe hat trick is a unique variation of the traditional hat trick in ice hockey, where a player achieves a goal, an assist, and participates in a fight all within the same game. Named after the legendary Gordie Howe, who accomplished this feat only twice in his illustrious career, it highlights a player’s versatility, skill, and toughness on the ice.
Origins and Definition
The term “Gordie Howe hat trick” was coined in the 1950s by a New York sportswriter, reflecting Howe’s reputation as a complete player who excelled in scoring, playmaking, and physicality. Unlike the standard hat trick of three goals, this version emphasizes a well-rounded performance. Howe himself remarked that it might more accurately involve a goal, an assist, and a cross-check to the face, underscoring his physical style. The first recorded instance dates back to December 26, 1917, when Harry Cameron of the Toronto Arenas achieved it against the Montreal Canadiens.
Notable Examples and Variations
Gordie Howe recorded his first Gordie Howe hat trick on October 11, 1953, against the Toronto Maple Leafs, scoring a goal, assisting on Red Kelly’s goal, and fighting Fernie Flaman. His second came on March 21, 1954, again versus the Maple Leafs, with a goal, assists on Ted Lindsay’s goals, and a fight against Ted Kennedy. Other notable examples include the “Double Gordie,” where two players each achieve the feat and fight each other, such as on October 9, 2024, when J.T. Miller and Anthony Mantha did so. Tereza Vanišová became the first woman to record one in the PWHL on February 20, 2025, against the Boston Fleet.
Key Facts / Stats
| Player | Total Gordie Howe Hat Tricks | Notable Details |
|---|---|---|
| Rick Tocchet | 18 | All-time leader, showcasing dominance in physical play. |
| Brendan Shanahan | 17 | Former NHL disciplinarian, known for clutch performances. |
| Brian Sutter | 16 | Tied with Tiger Williams and Wilf Paiement. |
| Gordie Howe | 2 | Namesake, achieved in 1953-54 season against Maple Leafs. |
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes a Gordie Howe hat trick different from a regular hat trick?
A regular hat trick involves scoring three goals in one game, often celebrated with fans throwing hats onto the ice. In contrast, a Gordie Howe hat trick combines a goal, an assist, and a fight, emphasizing a player’s all-around abilities rather than just offensive output.
Has a Gordie Howe hat trick ever occurred in women’s hockey?
Yes, Tereza Vanišová of the Ottawa Charge achieved the first in the Professional Women’s Hockey League on February 20, 2025, against the Boston Fleet, including a goal, assist, and a roughing penalty that counted as a fight.
Who holds the record for the most Gordie Howe hat tricks?
Rick Tocchet holds the record with 18, followed by Brendan Shanahan with 17 and Brian Sutter with 16.