Senators’ Chris Neil gets Gordie Howe hat trick in 900th career game

Senators winger Chris Neil recorded a Gordie Howe hat trick in his 900th career game.

Senators tough guy Chris Neil made his 900th career NHL game count, registering a hat trick against the Devils on Thursday. Well, he didn’t score three goals, but his goal, fight, and assist were good for a Gordie Howe hat trick.

After assisting on Zack Smith’s second period goal, Neil showed a flash of scoring touch, using some patience to beat Devils goaltender Cory Schneider glove side. 

Chris Neil is celebrating his 900th game in style. #NJDvsOTThttps://t.co/jJMEHoqOPt

— NHL (@NHL) October 23, 2015

A well-known fighter like Chris Neil is not going to pass up the opportunity to collect a Gordie Howe hat trick, and he found himself a dance partner late in the third. With just over seven minutes remaining in the game, the 36-year-old dropped the gloves against the always-feisty Jordin Tootoo, engaging in a spirited tilt.

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Neil’s big night was spoiled in the end, with the Devils stealing the two points via a late comeback and shootout win.

Through 900 NHL games, the former sixth round pick has racked up 107 goals and 235 points, with 2,303 penalty minutes.

– Mark Garbino