Page "Detroit Red Wings" Paragraph 25

But this could not last.

Mahovlich was traded to Montreal in 1970, and Howe retired after the 1970 – 71 season.

Howe returned to pro hockey shortly after to play with his two sons Mark and Marty Howe ( Mark would later join the Red Wings at the end of his career ) in the upstart World Hockey Association in 1972.

Through the decade, with Mickey Redmond having two 50 – goal seasons and Marcel Dionne starting to reach his prime ( which he did not attain until he was traded to the Los Angeles Kings ), a lack of defensive and goaltending ability continually hampered the Wings.