As the NHL season unfolds, all eyes are on Washington Capitals star Alex Ovechkin, who is on the brink of rewriting hockey history. The prolific scorer is closing in on Wayne Gretzky's seemingly untouchable record of 894 career NHL goals. With 858 goals to his name, Ovechkin needs just 36 more to surpass "The Great One," a feat he is projected to achieve in the 2024-25 regular season.
Chasing Greatness
Ovechkin's quest to claim the title of the NHL's all-time goals leader exemplifies an extraordinary career that has been defined by consistency and longevity. Last year, Ovechkin recorded 31 goals in the 2023-24 season—a dip since his 2012-13 performance when he notched 32. Despite this being his lowest tally since then, it marks his record-breaking 18th consecutive 30-goal season, a new high in NHL history, surpassing Mike Gartner's former record of 17 such seasons.
Ovechkin's historic campaign in the 2022-23 season saw him scoring 42 goals, a testament to his enduring prowess on the ice. Notably, he has scored at least 41 goals in 13 of his 19 NHL seasons, showcasing an unwavering ability to produce at a high level year after year.
A Season of Promise
With the 2024-25 season underway, Ovechkin has already tallied five goals, including a critical contribution in a 6-3 victory over the Montreal Canadiens on October 31. As this season progresses, Ovechkin is on pace for a potentially momentous 46-goal season, a figure that would firmly place him ahead of Gretzky's milestone.
The Capitals' star remains a vital part of the team’s offensive machinery, continuing to serve on the top power-play unit. This strategic position is likely to provide him with abundant goal-scoring opportunities, a prospect that excites Capitals fans and hockey enthusiasts alike who are eager to witness history in the making.
A Legacy Etched in Ice
Ovechkin's career statistics are nothing short of remarkable—1,560 points amassed from 858 goals and 702 assists. These figures not only underline his goal-scoring abilities but also highlight his playmaking skill, making Ovechkin one of the most rounded players in NHL history.
The anticipation surrounding his pursuit of Gretzky’s record contributes to the season's intrigue, with CBS Sports committed to tracking each goal Ovechkin scores throughout the 2024-25 season. His journey to this point reflects dedication and a relentless pursuit despite various challenges, including the adjusted format of the shortened 2020-21 season, where he contributed significantly with 24 goals.
As Ovechkin edges closer to surpassing one of hockey’s most revered records, the celebrations of his achievements will resonate far beyond the rink, influencing future generations of players and fans. Yet, beyond the statistics and accolades, Ovechkin's legacy will be remembered for the passion and vigor he has brought to the ice—a true embodiment of the sport's spirit.