Alex Ovechkin breaks new record as chase continues to become NHL’s all-time leading scorer

Alex Ovechkin, the star forward for the Washington Capitals, continues to make history in the National Hockey League (NHL). On Thursday night, during a thrilling 1-0 overtime victory over the Ottawa Senators, Ovechkin achieved a remarkable milestone, moving closer to breaking the all-time scoring record. The goal he scored in the overtime period was his 874th career goal, which means he now needs just 21 more goals to surpass Wayne Gretzky’s all-time record of 894 goals.

This particular goal was significant for more than just the total count. With it, Ovechkin set a new record for scoring on the most goaltenders in NHL history. His goal against Ottawa marked the 179th different goaltender he has scored on, breaking the previous record of 178 held by Jaromír Jágr. Reflecting on the accomplishment, Ovechkin, who has played for over 20 years, said, “It’s pretty cool. When you play 20 years – if you have chances to – you’ll take it.” His humility and dedication to his craft have defined his career, and this milestone is just another step toward his ultimate goal: surpassing Gretzky’s legendary mark.

With 21 goals in 29 games during the 2024-25 season, Ovechkin is on pace to break the record this year. At 39 years old, the Russian forward is showing no signs of slowing down. If he maintains his current scoring pace, he would eclipse Gretzky’s record in fewer games. Gretzky scored his 894 goals over 1,487 games during his illustrious career, while Ovechkin, with his current rate, could accomplish the feat in just 1,484 games, a mere three games fewer. If he remains healthy, the record could be his by the end of this season.

Ovechkin’s goal against Ottawa was not just any ordinary goal—it was the 27th overtime game-winner of his career, extending his own record in this category. Sidney Crosby of the Pittsburgh Penguins, with 22, holds second place for most overtime game-winners. Speaking about his decision to take the shot, Ovechkin explained, “I knew I should take a shot as soon as I can, because I knew (goaltender Leevi Merilainen) may be thinking I’m going to pass it back to Sandy. And it was a good one, and it goes in the net, so I’ll take it.”

Ovechkin’s path to the record has not been without obstacles. Earlier this season, he missed 16 games due to a broken fibula suffered in November 2024. However, Ovechkin quickly bounced back after his recovery, scoring four goals in just five games upon his return at the end of 2024. This resilience has been a hallmark of his career, and his continued success on the ice demonstrates his determination to chase history.

On Sunday, Ovechkin made more history when he scored his 20th goal of the season, marking his 20th consecutive season with at least 20 goals. This feat puts him in rare company, as he became only the second player in NHL history to achieve this remarkable milestone alongside Gordie Howe. Consistency and longevity have been key to Ovechkin’s success, and his ability to score year in and year out places him among the greatest players to ever play the game.

As Ovechkin’s chase for Gretzky’s record continues, the hockey world watches closely. Fans and analysts alike are in awe of his ability to maintain such a high level of play well into his late 30s. It’s not just his scoring prowess that has made him a legendary figure, but also his passion for the game and his leadership on the ice. As he nears the final stretch of his career, Ovechkin’s pursuit of Gretzky’s record is more than just a personal achievement—it’s a testament to the legacy he has built in the NHL.

With every goal, Ovechkin inches closer to making history, and if all goes according to plan, it may not be long before he stands alone at the top of the NHL’s all-time scoring list, surpassing the man who many believed would never be dethroned. For now, Ovechkin remains focused on the task at hand, knowing that with each goal, he’s writing a new chapter in the sport’s history.

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