The Howe Family Legacy (1960-1970)

Lore & Background

Howe was a key member of 'The Production Line' with Sid Abel and Ted Lindsay. He led Detroit to first place in regular-season play for seven consecutive years (1948–49 to 1954–55), a feat matched but not surpassed by the Montreal Canadiens, who had streaks of eight and seven consecutive first-place finishes. He sustained a severe skull fracture in the 1950 playoffs and missed the entire 1950–51 season, returning in 1951–52 to play every game.

In Their Own Story

The lights of Olympia Stadium hummed low over the ice as the third period wound down. Gordie Howe skated forward, his #9 jersey worn from years of battles along the boards. He took a pass near the blue line, eyes locked on the net. The crowd roared, not just for the potential goal, but because he was still there, playing every night while others bowed out. It was Detroit hockey in its purest form.

Reader's Guide

Howe's tenure with the Red Wings spanned from his debut in 1946 until his first retirement in 1971. He was coached by Jack Adams, who was head coach and general manager during this period. Sid Abel replaced Adams as general manager in 1962.

Did You Know?

• Howe scored 20 or more goals in 22 consecutive seasons between 1949 and 1971, an NHL record.
• He finished in the top five in NHL scoring for 20 straight seasons.
• Howe won the Art Ross Trophy six times, second most in NHL history.
• He led the NHL in playoff points four times.