Former Capital Mike Green just scored his first career hat trick on a historic night. During the Red Wings final home opener at Joe Louis Arena, Green scored a goal in each period, notching his first three-point night since March 8 against the Columbus Blue Jackets (three assists).
First Goal
Green’s first goal came after the Wings defenseman wristed a shot that squeaked over the shoulder of Andrew Hammond.
A look at Greener's first. #Squeaker #LGRW pic.twitter.com/0nRsKZZELp
— Detroit Red Wings (@DetroitRedWings) October 18, 2016
Second Goal
Later in the second period, Green scored one of his patented power play goals, one-timing a shot low to the ice past the Hamburglar.
Mike Green's second goal of the night on the PP. 3-0. Nifty play by Vanek here. pic.twitter.com/yC0tTZj8ko
— Ky.L. Stine (@KyleWIIM) October 18, 2016
Hat Trick Goal
Finally, in the third, Green skated the puck aggressively to the middle of the ice and unleashed a wrist shot to the top corner of the net.
Hat-trick for Greener? It's like an ultra-rare pokemon! pic.twitter.com/1Z4KjiC6lO
— Ky.L. Stine (@KyleWIIM) October 18, 2016
The Red Wings would defeat the Ottawa Senators 5-1.
Mike Green picks up first career hat trick as Red Wings top Senators 5-1 in last Joe Louis Arena opener. #NHL https://t.co/dmLj9381Rc pic.twitter.com/pb800MbhiB
— SportsCentre (@SportsCentre) October 18, 2016
A few new hats for @GreenLife52's collection. pic.twitter.com/tdqxYUwjpS
— NHL (@NHL) October 18, 2016
Mik3 Green. #LGRW pic.twitter.com/XD1deCxr5w
— Detroit Red Wings (@DetroitRedWings) October 18, 2016
During the game, the organization also honored NHL Hall of Famer Gordie Howe who died on June 10.
#RedWings pay tribute to Gordie Howe pic.twitter.com/PMtFHedZEy
— FOX Sports Detroit (@FOXSportsDet) October 18, 2016
Jeff Daniels also narrated a video package honoring the 37-year-old arena where the Red Wings won four Stanley Cups.
Thanks for the Memories, Joe. | #Farewell2TheJoe pic.twitter.com/RcSxL9Ycyq
— Detroit Red Wings (@DetroitRedWings) October 17, 2016
Headline photo: Bruce Bennett