Imagine this: a player scores, gets an assist, and drops the gloves in a fight – all in one game! That's the coveted "Gordie Howe hat trick," and Tom Wilson of the Washington Capitals pulled it off in a recent game against the New York Rangers. But here's where it gets controversial... Is the Gordie Howe hat trick overrated in today's NHL?
In a high-energy matchup, the Washington Capitals defeated the New York Rangers 6-3 on Wednesday, fueled by an outstanding performance from forward Tom Wilson. Wilson, who, adding to his already eventful day, had earlier been named to Canada’s Olympic roster, notched two goals and an assist. And to top it off, he engaged in a spirited fight with Sam Carrick in the second period, securing himself what is at least his second Gordie Howe hat trick since March 3, 2025! For those unfamiliar, a Gordie Howe hat trick is an unofficial statistic celebrating a player achieving a goal, an assist, and a fight within the same game. It's a testament to skill, playmaking, and willingness to engage physically.
Justin Sourdif also had a standout night with two goals for the Capitals. Anthony Beauvillier and Aliaksei Protas contributed with a goal each, helping the Capitals secure their second win in their last three games.
On the Rangers' side, Adam Fox, returning from a stint on long-term injured reserve, made his presence felt with a goal and an assist. Vincent Trocheck and Braden Schneider also found the back of the net for the Rangers, who, unfortunately, are currently experiencing a three-game losing streak.
The turning point in the game came in the second period. With the score tied at 1-1, the Capitals needed a spark – and Wilson delivered. The 31-year-old (not 28 as previously reported – a correction we're happy to clarify!) surged up the ice, delivering a crushing hit to Noah Laba before positioning himself perfectly in front of the net to roof a pass from Connor McMichael. This goal not only restored Washington’s lead but also made Wilson the first Capital to reach the 20-goal mark this season. And this is the part most people miss: It wasn’t just a goal; it was a statement.
Minutes later, Wilson answered for his hit on Laba, engaging in a fight with Carrick. The fight, initiated by Carrick, resulted in a power play for the Capitals. Sourdif capitalized on the opportunity, slipping a loose puck past Jonathan Quick (who recorded 21 saves) to end his personal 16-game goal drought, extending the Capitals' lead to 3-1.
Fox responded quickly with a power-play goal of his own, bringing the Rangers back within one goal at 3-2 heading into the third period.
However, Protas and Wilson, who achieved his 200th career goal during the game, added crucial insurance goals late in the third to solidify Washington's lead. Schneider managed to bring New York back within two goals late in the game, but it wasn't enough. Wilson then assisted Sourdif on an empty-netter, sealing the victory for the Capitals.
Capitals' goalie Charlie Lindgren had a solid performance, making 22 saves.
Looking ahead, the Rangers will visit Florida for the Winter Classic on Friday, while the Capitals will travel to Ottawa on Thursday.
Now, let's talk about Wilson's Gordie Howe hat trick. Some argue that fighting has become less relevant in modern hockey, and that the emphasis should be solely on scoring and playmaking. Others believe that a willingness to stand up for teammates and engage physically is still a valuable asset. What do you think? Is the Gordie Howe hat trick still a meaningful accomplishment, or is it a relic of a bygone era? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
