The NHL has avoided scheduling games on Christmas Eve or Day for more than 50 years. But throughout hockey’s history, there have been some truly remarkable Christmas Day encounters that have shaped the game and produced some of its most breathtaking moments.
Let’s take a look back and determine which are the top 5 NHL games that have ever been played on Christmas Day.
#5, Dec. 25, 1939 – Syd Howe’s Hat Trick Heroics
Detroit Red Wings left-winger Syd Howe stole the spotlight in 1939 with a one-man show, scoring a hat trick in a 3-1 victory over the Montreal Canadiens. Howe’s remarkable performance showcased his accuracy and scoring skills and remains etched in the memories of fans.
#4, Dec. 25, 1949 – Lumley’s Milestone Win
Goalie Harry Lumley made history on Christmas Day in 1949 when he became the first netminder to record 150 victories while playing for the Red Wings. Lumley’s accomplishment occurred during a 4-2 triumph over Montreal, where Sid Abel gave Detroit three assists in a memorable contest.
#3, Dec. 25, 1939 – Delvecchio’s Record-Setting Night
On Christmas Day, 1939, Alex Delvecchio made NHL history by registering two assists in Detroit’s 6-3 defeat to the Pittsburgh Penguins. Even with the loss, Delvecchio moved up to third place behind Jean Beliveau and teammate Gordie Howe in terms of total points.
#2, Dec. 25, 1956 – Gordie Howe 6-pointer
The greatest offensive matchup of hockey great Gordie Howe’s legendary career occurred on Christmas Day, 1956, when he turned in a breathtaking display. With three goals and three assists, Howe recorded his first-ever six-point performance, helping the Red Wings defeat the New York Rangers 8-1.
Bonus: Dec. 25, 1964 – Gordie Howe’s Solo Act
On Christmas Day eight years after his historic offensive game, Gordie Howe displayed his genius once more. Howe was the Wings’ only offensive source in a 2-2 draw with the Canadiens.
#1, Dec. 25, 1930 – The Red Wings’ Christmas NHL Extravaganza
The Detroit Falcons, the team that played on Christmas Day before the Red Wings, were one such team. They defeated the Toronto Maple Leafs 10-1 on December 25, 1930, setting a record for the most goals scored in a Christmas Day game. One of the highest-scoring contests for the Detroit team was this historic triumph.
These five meetings on Christmas Day stand as the high point of NHL history, highlighting historic games, historic performances, and life-changing experiences.
