Alex DeBrincat and the Myth of the Gordie Howe Hat Trick

The so-called Gordie Howe hat trick, named after the former captain of the Detroit Red Wings, is accomplished when an NHL player records a goal, assist, and a fight in a game. Alex DeBrincat was the latest Red Wing to accomplish this feat on Thursday against the Nashville Predators. The Red Wings would defeat the Predators in overtime by a score of 5-4. Howe is one of the most decorated athletes in the history of the city of Detroit.

The strange thing is that Howe only had two documented “Gordie Howe hat tricks” during his illustrious career. So, how did the Gordie Howe hat trick get its moniker? The Official Guide to the Players of the Hockey Hall of Fame says that the first such hat trick belongs to the Toronto St. Pats Hall of Famer Harry Cameron. Cameron accomplished the feat on December 22, 1920, eight years before Howe was born.

DeBrincat was signed by the Red Wings to give the team the bona fide scoring threat that they desperately need. When it comes to physical play, DeBrincat is no Gordie Howe. He was not brought in to fight. In his six-year career, DeBrincat had only fought four times before fighting Roman Josi, who is five inches taller. For him to come to the aid of a teammate during the Red Wings’ recent rough stretch shows that the team is playing together.

Patrick Kane also signed with the Red Wings after having hip resurfacing surgery on June 1^st. The 35-year-old has far surpassed the expectations for an athlete having such a surgery. In 12 games played for the Red Wings, Kane has scored six goals and added seven assists. As Kane has never been known for physical play, DeBrincat has shown recently that he can come to the aid of his friend should the occasion arise.

ITR 47: Then There Was Nothing – Inside The Rink

Join Conrad and Chris as the discuss Gavin McKenna making the jump to the NCAA, Pittsburgh and San Jose making additions, and the NHL season to begin on October 7, 2025.

1. ITR 47: Then There Was Nothing 32:56
2. ITR 46: Offseason Chaos 24:53
3. ITR 45: Everything Is Happening 37:46
4. ITR 44: We Have A Champion…Again 56:17
5. ITR 43: It's Winning Time 39:10