Alex Ovechkin has cemented his place in hockey history, surpassing Wayne Gretzky to become the NHL`s all-time leading goal scorer with his 895th goal. It took Ovechkin two decades of consistent performance to reach this monumental milestone, accumulating impressive statistics throughout his career.
Gretzky`s goal record was once thought to be unbreakable. However, Ovechkin entered the league and immediately demonstrated his scoring prowess, netting 52 goals in his rookie season (2005-06). He continued this exceptional scoring rate for the next 20 years.
Ovechkin`s remarkable longevity and consistency have allowed him to achieve extraordinary numbers, exceeding Gretzky in several key areas. He is particularly known for his power play goals, clutch performances, and scoring ability in away games.
Ovechkin`s journey to becoming the NHL`s top goal scorer is a story of dedication and skill. Let`s examine the key statistics that highlight his path to this historic achievement:
Games Played: 1,487
Ovechkin matched Gretzky`s games played when reaching the record. Both legends scored 894 goals in 1,487 career games. Playing this many games in the physically demanding NHL is a significant accomplishment in itself, even before considering breaking the scoring record.
Even-Strength Goals: 565
While celebrated for his power play dominance, Ovechkin also boasts an impressive 565 even-strength goals, just behind Gordie Howe for second-most in NHL history. Gretzky leads in this category with 617. Ovechkin is likely to surpass Howe in this statistic as well.
Power Play Goals: 325
Ovechkin`s power play expertise is legendary. Opponents know his signature one-timer from the left circle is coming, yet they remain unable to stop it. His record-breaking goal was his 325th power play goal.
Empty-Net Goals: 65
Ovechkin has scored a record 65 empty-net goals. While some might discount these, they are a result of his team`s success and ability to create late-game scoring opportunities. Ovechkin ensured his record-breaking goal was not an empty-netter.
Shorthanded Goals: 5
Surprisingly, Ovechkin has 5 shorthanded goals, despite not being primarily known for defensive play. His last shorthanded goal was in the 2021-22 season.
Penalty Shot Goals: 2
Ovechkin has scored 2 penalty shot goals, double Gretzky`s total. It`s remarkable that these two highest scorers have only a combined three penalty shot goals.
Game-Winning Goals: 136
Ovechkin holds the record for game-winning goals, surpassing Jaromir Jagr. His ability to perform in crucial moments has contributed significantly to this record, especially in the 3-on-3 overtime era.
Hat Tricks: 32
Ovechkin has 32 career hat tricks, fewer than Gretzky`s 50. This highlights Ovechkin`s consistent scoring rather than relying on high-scoring outbursts.
Highest Goal Season: 65
Ovechkin`s highest single-season goal total is 65, ranking 24th in NHL history. Gretzky has four seasons with more goals, including seasons with 92 and 87 goals. Ovechkin`s strength is his consistent high scoring over many seasons.
40-Goal Seasons: 14
Ovechkin has an NHL record 14 seasons with 40 or more goals, further demonstrating his remarkable consistency and sustained high performance throughout his career.
Longest Goal Drought: 14 Games
Ovechkin`s longest goal drought is only 14 games, a testament to his consistent scoring ability, particularly on the power play. Gretzky`s longest drought was 21 games.
Road Goals: 456
Ovechkin holds the NHL record for road goals with 456. He has consistently scored prolifically in opposing arenas.
Goals vs. Single Opponent: 57
Ovechkin has scored 57 goals against the Atlanta Thrashers/Winnipeg Jets franchise, the most against any single opponent. Interestingly, Gretzky also scored the most goals against a Jets franchise (the original Winnipeg Jets, now Arizona Coyotes/Utah).
