- Gordie Howe tops the Detroit Red Wings in goals (786) and points (1809).
- Steve Yzerman led the Red Wings to three Stanley Cups.
- Nicklas Lidström won seven Norris Trophies in Detroit.
One of the NHL’s Original Six teams, the Detroit Red Wings have a luxurious history filled with legendary players whose contributions have changed the game of hockey.
Their remarkable careers not only shaped the franchise’s destiny but also increased the team’s NHL odds of winning it all each season. This article celebrates the best Detroit Red Wings players of all time.
6 Best Detroit Red Wings Players of All Time
Rank | Player | Position | Red Wings Years |
1 | Gordie Howe | Right Wing | 1946-1971 |
2 | Steve Yzerman | Centre | 1983-2006 |
3 | Nicklas Lidstrom | Defence | 1991-2012 |
4 | Ted Lindsay | Left Wing | 1944-1957; 1964-65 |
5 | Terry Sawchuck | Goalie | 1949-1955; 1957-1964; 1968-1969 |
6 | Henrik Zetterberg | Left Wing | 2002-2018 |
1. Gordie Howe
Known as “Mr.Hockey,” Gordie Howe’s time with the Red Wings is the stuff of legend. With a remarkable 786 goals and 1,809 points in his Detroit career, Howe’s all-around ability, toughness and longevity set the standard for future generations.
Sid Abel, Gordie Howe and Ted Lindsay. The Production Line produces against the Rangers. pic.twitter.com/ag1JSHnxa0
— The Hockey Samurai 侍 (@hockey_samurai) February 22, 2024
2. Steve Yzerman
The longtime captain of the Red Wings, Steve Yzerman led the team to three Stanley Cup victories with a blend of leadership, incredible skill and determination.
He played 1,514 games in Detroit, amassing 1,755 points to sit second on the Red Wings all-time list. Yzerman shaped the team’s culture and identity for two decades, winning the 1983 Art Ross Trophy, 1997-1998 Conn Smythe Trophy, and 1999-2000 Selke Trophy.
3. Nicklas Lidstrom
“The Perfect Human,” Nicklas Lidström redefined defensive play with his phenomenal hockey IQ, poise and consistency. Winning the Norris Trophy seven times, Lidström was a cornerstone of the Red Wings success, contributing to four Stanley Cup championships.
It's always a good time for a Nicklas Lidstrom montage. #LGRW pic.twitter.com/bXKmQsClRB
— Winged Wheel Podcast (@WingedWheelPod) February 18, 2022
“Saint Nick” sits second in games played (1,564), third in assists (878), and fourth in points (1,142) in Red Wings history.
4. Ted Lindsay
A key member of the famed “Production Line” with Gordie Howe and Sid Abel, Lindsay’s competitive nature and scoring prowess were integral to Detroit’s early successes. Lindsay won four Stanley Cups in Detroit and the 1949-1950 Art Ross Trophy.
His efforts in establishing the NHL Players’ Association cemented his legacy as a pioneering figure in hockey. The Ted Lindsay Award is awarded annually to the NHL’s most outstanding player as judged by his peers in the NHLPA.
5. Terry Sawchuk
Sawchuk’s legendary Red Wings career included the 1950-1951 Calder Memorial Trophy and three Vezina Trophies. His skill between the pipes was integral to three Stanley Cup victories in Detroit.
Sawchuk still holds the Red Wings’ records for wins (350), shutouts (85), and games played (734) by a goaltender.
6. Henrik Zetterberg
Zetterberg’s leadership and clutch scoring, including a fabulous Conn Smythe Trophy performance in 2008, solidifies his place among the Red Wings greats.
“Hank Z” sits sixth in games played (1,082), and fifth in goals (337), assists (623), and points (960) in franchise history.