Ovechkin’s Pursuit: Chasing Gretzky’s All-Time Goal Record

In the realm of NHL goal-scoring history, there’s only one name left for Alex Ovechkin to surpass, and it belongs to the legendary Wayne Gretzky.

Ovechkin’s quest to break Gretzky’s all-time goal record of 894 is one of the most thrilling storylines in the current NHL season. Gretzky’s mark, standing for almost three decades, was considered unbreakable until the Washington Capitals captain emerged as a serious contender.

Last year, Ovechkin made history by surpassing Gordie Howe for second place on the all-time goal list, simultaneously breaking Gretzky’s record for the most 40-goal seasons. As Ovechkin enters his 19th season, his lethal one-time slap shot remains a terror for goaltenders.

While breaking the record this season seems unlikely, with Ovechkin more than 60 goals behind Gretzky, the Capitals star continues to chip away at the deficit.

Ovechkin’s Standing Against Gretzky’s Record (Stats as of Jan. 4, 2024)

NHL All-Time Goals Leaders

1. Wayne Gretzky (Oilers, Kings, Blues, Rangers): 894
2. Alex Ovechkin (Capitals): 830
3. Gordie Howe (Red Wings, Whalers): 801
4. Jaromir Jagr (Various teams): 766
5. Brett Hull (Various teams): 741

Most Goals in an NHL Season

1. Wayne Gretzky (Edmonton Oilers, 1981-82): 92
2. Wayne Gretzky (Edmonton Oilers, 1983-84): 87
3. Brett Hull (St. Louis Blues, 1990-91): 86
4. Mario Lemieux (Pittsburgh Penguins, 1988-89): 85
5. Phil Esposito (Boston Bruins, 1970-71): 76 Alexander Mogilny (Buffalo Sabres, 1992-93): 76 Teemu Selanne (Winnipeg Jets, 1992-93): 76

Will Ovechkin Catch Gretzky?

While Gretzky’s records are often deemed untouchable, Ovechkin poses a serious threat. As of Dec. 22, Ovechkin is 64 goals away from matching Gretzky’s 894. At his career average of 0.61 goals per game, equivalent to 50 goals in an 82-game season, Ovechkin has a realistic chance.

Breaking the record this year is improbable, given the rarity of 70-goal seasons since 1993. If Ovechkin maintains his health and production, he could potentially surpass Gretzky during the 2024-25 NHL season. Ovechkin’s contract with Washington extends until 2026, when he’ll be 41.

Considering Ovechkin’s resilience and consistent performance, there’s optimism at The Sporting News that the Great 8 will indeed become the NHL’s all-time goal leader.

Ovechkin’s Career Stats (2023-24 Season)

• Career Goals: 822 (8 goals in the 2023-24 season)
• Career Highlights: 13-time Rocket Richard Trophy winner, Rookie of the Year (Calder), Most 40-goal seasons (13)

Ovechkin’s goal-scoring prowess has been evident since his rookie season, where he notched 52 goals. Winning the Rocket Richard Trophy nine times and consistently reaching the 50-goal mark, Ovechkin’s impact on the game is unparalleled.

Selected Seasonal Stats:

• 2022-23: 73 games, 42 goals
• 2021-22: 77 games, 50 goals
• 2020-21: 45 games, 24 goals
• 2019-20: 68 games, 48 goals

As Ovechkin continues his historic journey, the anticipation grows for the moment he etches his name at the summit of NHL goal-scoring history.