He was the NHL 's all - time leading scorer after both his retirements ( 1971 and 1980 ) .
Gordie Howe appeared in 1,767 games , the most in league history .
Gordie Howe was the NHL 's all - time leading scorer after both Gordie Howe 's retirements ( 1971 and 1980 ) .
Gordie Howe appeared in 1,767 games , the most in league history .