Raymond joins Red Wings record books with hat trick, four-point game

DETROIT -- On Sunday night at the United Center during the Detroit Red Wings' 6-3 win over the Chicago Blackhawks, Lucas Raymond recorded an output that placed him among a class that would be unimaginable for most rookies just breaking into the National Hockey League.
Six games into his career, Raymond's name is now associated with a pair of iconic players who have left indelible marks on the franchise.

Raymond scored goals in all three periods of Sunday's game to become the only the third teenager in Red Wings history to record at least four points in a game, joining current Executive Vice President and General Manager Steve Yzerman (3-1-4 on Dec. 23, 1983; 18 years, 228 days) and "Mr. Hockey," Gordie Howe (0-4-4 on Dec. 17, 1947; 19 years, 261 days).

Raymond's hat trick was also the first by a Detroit skater age 19 or younger since Yzerman did so on April 30, 1985 against the Toronto Maple Leafs. Howe and Raymond each tallied their debut four-point games against the Blackhawks.
"It's tough to take in. Those are two of the greatest players in franchise history," Raymond said. "Trying not to think about it that much. Just keep playing, keep working and try to develop and execute as a team and as a person every day."
Early this season, Raymond has displayed the complete game that led to him being the fourth overall selection in the 2020 NHL Entry Draft, just a year and 20 days ago.
"He's getting a hell of an opportunity," Red Wings coach Jeff Blashill said. "He's in the NHL at a young age, which not a lot of guys get a chance to do, and he's playing with real good players on a real good line and getting important minutes. I think, obviously, he's capitalized on that."

Currently skating alongside Tyler Bertuzzi and captain Dylan Larkin, Raymond has been part of a top line that has gotten off to a great start this season.
"They are two extremely smart and great players," Raymond said. "It's really fun playing with them. It feels like we are getting to know each other out there and playing with a lot of pace. It feels really good, and they are easy to play with and they help me a lot both on the ice, and off the ice. It's fun."
Raymond and the Red Wings will take on the Washington Capitals from Capital One Arena on Wednesday night beginning at 7 p.m. The game will be carried live on Bally Sports Detroit and the Red Wings Radio Network.