LAS VEGAS – Patrick Marleau is poised to make history tonight.
The 41-year-old native of Aneroid, Sask., will surpass Gordie Howe’s record for most games played in NHL history when the San Jose Sharks forward suits up for the 1,768th time against the Vegas Golden Knights.
Marleau’s wife and four kids are scheduled to be at the road game, which wouldn’t be possible in San Jose, where fans still aren’t allowed during the pandemic.
Since being picked second overall in the 1997 NHL draft by San Jose, Marleau has notched 566 goals and 630 assists. Apart from two seasons with the Toronto Maple Leafs and eight games with the Pittsburgh Penguins, Marleau has spent the rest of his career with San Jose.
Marleau also helped Canada win two gold medals at the Olympics in 2010 in Vancouver and 2014 in Sochi.
Howe also played an 419 games in the World Hockey Association, which don’t count toward his NHL record.
This report by The Canadian Press was first published April 19, 2021.
JOIN THE CONVERSATION
Anyone can read Conversations, but to contribute, you should be registered Torstar account holder. If you do not yet have a Torstar account, you can create one now (it is free)