Published 12/12/2022, 2:45 PM EST
When two of the finest hockey players compete against each other, there’s bound to be entertainment. This is exactly what happened when Wayne Gretzky and Gordie Howe played against each other for the first time. During a talk in 2021, Gretzky recalled the memorable match and also narrated an interesting anecdote with Gordie Shaw. He also gave his frank opinion on Gordie Shaw.
The memorable match took place on November 17th, 1979. Wayne Gretzky was playing for the Edmonton Oilers whereas Gordie Howe was playing for the New England Whalers. Along with the amusing anecdote about Gordie Shaw, Wayne Gretzky also narrated a misconception he had about Gordie Shaw.
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Wayne Gretzky Recalls the Unforgettable Match and Gives His Views on Gordie Howe
The Great One revealed that he looked forward to facing Gordie Howe in the match. “I was in the warmup, and I was so, so excited to play against Gordie Howe”, Gretzky said. The legend also spoke about how he thought that Gordie winked at him. However, he revealed that this was his misconception and realized later that Gordie had an eye problem.
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The hockey legend also recalled how during the match, he stole the puck from Shaw, taking it far from his reach. Continuing, Gretzky spoke that after moving in another direction, he suddenly felt Gordie’s stick. “Kid, do not ever take the puck from me again,’ Gordie admonished him. Responding, Gretzky told him that he’ll never take his puck in future.
Gretzky also spoke about how Gordie inspired him and described a special ‘Gordie Howe Putter’ that he has. “I idolized and loved Gordie so much. We were good friends.” Gretzky also said that Howe was one of the greatest players of the sport and spoke admiringly of his charm.
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“Was Bigger and Better Than I Thought”: Wayne Gretzky Was Once ‘Fascinated’ by Gordie Howe’s Kind Gesture Before Breaking His Idol’s Goal Record
When Gordie Howe died on 10th June 2016, Wayne Gretzky gave him a heartfelt tribute on Twitter. Calling him one of the greatest players in hockey, Gretzky also said that Gordie was the nicest person he had met.
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Wayne Gretzky’s Reaction to Breaking Gordie Howe’s Record
After breaking Gordie’s record by scoring his 802nd goal in 1994, the hockey legend went on to say that it was something very special. Continuing, he expressed that he found it difficult to describe in words. He also said the best records are tough to break. The Great One celebrated breaking the record with his parents and wife.
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Gretzky’s statements about Gordie Shaw show how he was in awe of Shaw and had huge respect for him. Gretzky and Shaw’s legacy will always be unforgettable in NHL history. As hockey fans, we hope that Gretzky accomplishes many more laurels in future. Out of the two NHL greats Wayne Gretzky and Gordie Shaw, who is your favorite? Let us know in the comments below.