Alexander Ovechkin is on the verge of making NHL history, needing just 18 more goals to surpass Wayne Gretzky’s all-time record of 894 goals. The Washington Capitals captain has already solidified himself as one of the greatest goal-scorers in hockey history, but now he is chasing immortality.
This article provides a comprehensive breakdown of Ovechkin’s goal tracker, including his current standings, key milestones, projections, and impact on the NHL.
Ovechkin’s Current Goal Count & Record Chase
All-Time NHL Goal Leaders
| Rank | Player | Goals | Games Played |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Wayne Gretzky | 894 | 1,487 |
| 2 | Alexander Ovechkin | 876 | [Updated Games Played] |
| 3 | Gordie Howe | 801 | 1,767 |
| 4 | Jaromír Jágr | 766 | 1,733 |
| 5 | Brett Hull | 741 | 1,269 |
Current Gap: Ovechkin is just 18 goals away from becoming the greatest goal scorer in NHL history. Given his consistency and durability, the record could fall within the next season.
How Many Games Will It Take for Ovechkin to Break the Record?
Based on his career goal-scoring average (0.6 goals per game), Ovechkin could break Gretzky’s record in the next 30-35 games, assuming he stays healthy and maintains his usual scoring pace.
🔹 Projected Date to Break the Record: Mid to Late 2025 Season
🔹 Possible Landmark Game: A home game for the Washington Capitals would be ideal for the historic moment.
Ovechkin’s Road to 894: Key Milestones
1. Rookie Season (2005-06): The Beginning of a Legend
Ovechkin introduced himself to the NHL with an explosive 52-goal rookie campaign, earning him the Calder Trophy for best rookie. His famous falling-down goal against the Coyotes remains one of the most iconic goals in NHL history.
2. First Maurice “Rocket” Richard Trophy (2007-08)
With 65 goals, Ovechkin won his first of many Rocket Richard Trophies, awarded to the league’s leading goal scorer.
3. 500-Goal Club (2016)
Ovechkin became the fifth-fastest player in NHL history to reach 500 goals, achieving the feat in just 801 games.
4. Passing Gordie Howe (2022)
In December 2022, Ovechkin surpassed Gordie Howe’s 801 goals, becoming the second-highest goal scorer in NHL history.
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Why Ovechkin’s Goal-Scoring Record is Even More Impressive
1. Modern NHL vs. Gretzky’s Era
Gretzky played in a higher-scoring era, where goaltending and defensive systems were less advanced. Ovechkin, on the other hand, has dominated in an era of elite goaltending, improved defensive strategies, and faster gameplay.
2. Consistency & Durability
Unlike many top goal scorers, Ovechkin has maintained an elite level of production for nearly two decades, rarely missing time due to injury.
3. Unmatched One-Timer
His power-play one-timer from the left circle (often called “Ovi’s Office”) is one of the most lethal and consistent weapons in NHL history.
What Happens After Ovechkin Breaks the Record?
1. Setting an Untouchable Mark
If Ovechkin plays for two more seasons after breaking the record, he could push past 930 goals, making his record nearly impossible to break.
2. Securing His Legacy as the Greatest Goal Scorer
Many already consider Ovechkin the greatest goal scorer of all time, but officially surpassing Gretzky will eliminate any debate.
3. The Impact on Future Generations
Ovechkin’s record-breaking career will likely inspire young goal scorers and change how players approach power-play strategies and shooting techniques.
Recent Game Recap: Ovechkin’s Latest Performance
Washington Capitals vs. [Opponent]
The Capitals secured a 4-3 victory, with Ovechkin adding another goal to his tally.
Key Players in Capitals’ Win
⭐ Alexander Ovechkin – 1 goal, 1 assist, 5 shots on net
⭐ Nicklas Bäckström – 2 assists, strong playmaking presence
⭐ Darcy Kuemper – 32 saves, clutch stops in the third period
Upcoming Games to Watch as Ovechkin Nears History
📅 Washington Capitals vs. Pittsburgh Penguins – Could he pass Gretzky in a rivalry matchup against Sidney Crosby?
📅 Washington Capitals vs. New York Rangers – A high-profile game where history could be made.
📅 Washington Capitals vs. Boston Bruins – A home game could be the perfect setting for the record-breaking goal.
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Conclusion
Alexander Ovechkin is on the verge of becoming the NHL’s all-time leading goal scorer, a milestone that seemed unreachable in modern hockey. His unparalleled consistency, longevity, and scoring ability make him a once-in-a-lifetime player.
As he closes in on Wayne Gretzky’s 894-goal record, the hockey world watches in anticipation for the moment when Ovechkin cements his place as the greatest goal scorer in NHL history.
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