San Jose Sharks’ Patrick Marleau named NHL’s first star of the week

The new all-time games played leader has been named the NHL’s first star of the week.

Patrick Marleau took him the honour after overtaking Gordie Howe for the most regular season games played in NHL history last week. It came in a 3-2 shootout loss to the Vegas Golden Knights on April 19.

“The emotional roller coaster, it was definitely a long ride,” Marleau said after breaking Howe’s record. “I’m very grateful and blessed that I was able to do this with all the support I’ve had over my career. It’s something I’ll never forget.”

Drafted second overall in 1997, Marleau joined more elite company two days later joining Doug Jarvis, Keith Yandle and Garry Unger as the fourth player in league history to play in 900 straight games.

Second star of the week was Minnesota Wild goalie Cam Talbot who posted a 3-0 record and a .953 save percentage helping the team clinch a playoff spot.

Third star of the week went to Florida Panthers winger Jonathan Huberdeau who led the league in scoring last week with seven points in four games. His hot week helped Panthers to a 3-1 record.

Zach Laing is the Nation Network’s news director and senior columnist. He can be followed on Twitter at @zjlaing, or reached by email at zach@oilersnation.com.