Alex Ovechkin of the Washington Capitals, a celebrated figure in NHL history, is approaching a significant milestone. Already a legend, the forward is closing in on Wayne Gretzky`s record for the most career goals.
At 39 years old, Ovechkin is on the cusp of becoming the NHL`s all-time leading scorer. He needs just four more goals to surpass Gretzky`s benchmark of 894 before this season concludes. Currently, Ovechkin has 891 career goals, adding to his tally with his 38th goal of the season on Tuesday against the Bruins.
With eight games remaining in the 2024-25 season after Tuesday`s game, Ovechkin`s pursuit of history is intensifying. He must score four goals in these remaining games to overtake Gretzky`s record.
While on track to potentially break “The Great One`s” record, Ovechkin has little room for error as the regular season nears its end. Maintaining his current scoring pace gives him a chance to break the record by the season`s final day on April 17.
Securing one or two multi-goal games would significantly boost his chances. He has achieved this five times this season, though only once since late November. Here’s a look at the Capitals` upcoming games and the average goals allowed per game by their opponents:
Capitals Upcoming Schedule
- April 1: at Bruins (3.28)
- April 2: at Hurricanes (2.64)
- April 4: vs. Blackhawks (3.59)
- April 6: at Islanders (3.06)
Ovechkin`s career totals include 1,614 points (891 goals, 723 assists). On March 9th, he became the 11th NHL player to reach 1,600 points.
In the 2022-23 season, Ovechkin scored 42 goals, and remarkably, he has reached at least 41 goals in 13 of his 19 NHL seasons.
During the 2023-24 season, Ovechkin made history by achieving an NHL record 18th 30-goal season, surpassing Mike Gartner`s previous record of 17. He has now extended this record to 19 seasons.
The hockey world is watching as Ovechkin continues his quest to break Gretzky`s all-time record this season.
