Teammates and coach Scotty Bowman congratulate Steve Yzerman after he scored the 500th goal of his career on January 17, 1996.
Here’s what happened this week in Detroit sports history.
Yzerman reaches 500 goals
On January 17, 1996, Steve Yzerman scores the 500th goal of his career in a game against the Colorado Avalanche with Patrick Roy in the net. The Wings win the contest, 3-2.
Gordie Howe becomes NHL’s top scorer
On January 17, 1960, Gordie Howe scores two goals and records an assist and passes Maurice “Rocket” Richard for most points in NHL history, with 950. Howe is only 31 when he passes Richard, who is playing his final season with Montreal.
Gordie nets #100
On January 17, 1951. on “Maurice Richard Night” in Montreal, Gordie Howe scores the 100th goal of his NHL career.
Tiger owner Walter Briggs dies
On January 17, 1952, Tigers’ owner Walter O. Briggs Sr. dies in Detroit. The control of the team passes to his son, Walter O. “Spike” Briggs Jr.