Alex Ovechkin's Record: 9 NHL Players Who Might Break It

7 min read Post on May 10, 2025

Alex Ovechkin's Record: 9 NHL Players Who Might Break It

Connor McDavid: The Potential "Great One" of This Generation

Connor McDavid possesses a combination of exceptional skill, speed, and hockey IQ rarely seen in the NHL. His vision, playmaking, and ability to create scoring chances for himself and his teammates are unparalleled. While his goal-scoring pace isn't quite at Ovechkin's level yet, his consistent high point totals demonstrate remarkable offensive prowess. McDavid's relatively injury-free career so far bodes well for his longevity, a crucial factor in chasing a record that demands sustained high-level performance over many seasons. However, team performance and potential future injuries remain factors that could influence his overall goal count.

Consistent high point totals: McDavid has consistently topped 100 points per season, indicating sustained elite offensive production.
Elite playmaking ability: His exceptional vision and passing ability contribute significantly to his team's overall scoring, even if not directly translating into goals for himself.
Long career ahead: At a relatively young age, McDavid has ample time to accumulate goals.
Potential longevity concerns: While currently healthy, the physical demands of the NHL could pose a challenge to sustained performance over two decades.

Auston Matthews: The Modern-Day Sniper

Auston Matthews is a pure goal scorer, renowned for his exceptional shooting accuracy and power. His knack for finding the back of the net is undeniable, making him a serious contender in the race to break Ovechkin's record. His scoring style, characterized by powerful shots and a deadly wrist shot, is undeniably effective. However, Matthews' injury history, including shoulder and wrist issues, presents a significant obstacle in his pursuit of this monumental achievement. The sustainability of his scoring, and his ability to stay healthy through a long career, will be key.

Exceptional shooting skills: Matthews' accuracy and power make him a constant threat to score.
High goal-scoring totals: He consistently scores at an elite rate.
Potential injury risk: His past injuries represent a major concern for his longevity.
Dependence on power play goals: A significant portion of his goals come from power-play opportunities, which can fluctuate from season to season.

Leon Draisaitl: The Versatile Goal-Scoring Machine

Leon Draisaitl showcases remarkable versatility, scoring from various positions and situations on the ice. His ability to both score himself and create opportunities for teammates significantly contributes to his consistently high point totals. Draisaitl’s exceptional playmaking complements his own goal-scoring abilities, making him a formidable offensive threat. His consistency and continued high-level performance suggest a strong potential for a long and prolific career, essential for challenging Ovechkin's record.

High point totals: Draisaitl consistently racks up significant points each season.
Versatility on the ice: His ability to play multiple positions and contribute offensively in various situations.
Strong playmaking abilities: He's an excellent passer who can set up teammates for goals.
Potential for longevity: His consistent performance suggests a long and productive career.

Kirill Kaprizov: The Dynamic Russian Talent

Kirill Kaprizov's explosiveness, exceptional skill, and adaptation to the NHL make him a captivating player to watch. His dynamic skating, combined with his quick release and accurate shot, contribute to his high goal-scoring potential. Kaprizov’s ability to create scoring chances out of seemingly nothing and his continued growth suggest that his best years are yet to come. As he continues to mature and adapt, he could see a significant increase in his goal-scoring output.

Exceptional skating skills: Kaprizov’s speed and agility are among the best in the league.
High skill level: His puck-handling and shooting skills are elite.
Potential for improvement: He's still relatively young and has room to improve.
Adaptability to the NHL: He's shown he can excel in the NHL’s faster and more physical style of play.

Jack Hughes: The Rising Star with Explosive Potential

Jack Hughes' speed and agility are game-changers, making him a constant threat in the offensive zone. While his goal production has been steadily increasing, his youth and potential for further growth suggest he could become an elite goal scorer. As Hughes matures and his consistency improves, his goal-scoring numbers have the potential to explode.

Exceptional speed and agility: Hughes's skating ability is a major asset.
High potential for goal scoring: His skills project a future of high goal production.
Room for improvement in consistency: Maintaining a high level of performance throughout a season is key.
Youth and potential for growth: He's still young and has significant room for improvement.

Mika Zibanejad: The Consistent Offensive Force

Mika Zibanejad is a consistent offensive force, known for his ability to score crucial goals, particularly in high-pressure situations. His consistent performance and high point totals prove his ability to remain a top offensive player. While his age might be a factor in his long-term goal-scoring prospects, his ability to consistently score important goals throughout his career is undeniable.

Consistent offensive production: Zibanejad delivers solid offensive numbers year after year.
Ability to score clutch goals: He's known for scoring important goals in crucial games.
Potential age-related decline: His age might eventually affect his goal-scoring ability.
Team performance impact: The success of his team will heavily influence his own scoring opportunities.

Nathan MacKinnon: The Dynamic Playmaker and Scorer

Nathan MacKinnon is a dynamic player with exceptional speed, skill, and playmaking abilities. His ability to both score and set up goals makes him a force to be reckoned with. While his goal-scoring numbers are already impressive, his potential for increased production is significant. However, his injury history remains a concern that could impact his ability to chase the record.

Exceptional speed and skill: MacKinnon is one of the fastest and most skilled players in the league.
Excellent playmaking ability: His passing skills create many scoring chances for his teammates.
High goal-scoring potential: His talent suggests he has the potential to score at an even higher rate.
Injury concerns: Past injuries could affect his longevity and overall goal count.

Jason Robertson: The High-Volume Shooter

Jason Robertson's goal-scoring success is largely attributed to his high shot volume. His ability to get many shots on net increases his chances of scoring, even with a possibly lower shooting percentage compared to some others on this list. While the sustainability of this high-volume approach is a question, if his accuracy improves, his overall goal production could skyrocket.

High shot volume: Robertson takes many shots, increasing his likelihood of scoring.
Improving shooting accuracy: As his accuracy improves, his goal totals will likely increase.
Potential for sustained production: Maintaining his high shot volume could lead to continued high goal totals.
Dependence on high volume: His success heavily relies on generating many shot attempts.

Brayden Point: The Understated Goal Scorer

Brayden Point is a consistent offensive contributor who consistently scores important goals, particularly in the playoffs. His ability to rise to the occasion in high-stakes games is undeniable. While not always the flashiest player, Point's consistent scoring and clutch performances make him a dark horse in the race to break Ovechkin’s record. His strong playoff performances contribute significantly to his legacy.

Consistent offensive production: Point delivers regularly on offense.
Clutch goal scorer: He’s known for scoring crucial goals in critical moments.
Strong playoff performance: His success in the playoffs highlights his ability to perform under pressure.
Potential for sustained success: His consistent performance suggests a long and productive career.

Conclusion: The Quest to Surpass Ovechkin's Record

The pursuit of Alex Ovechkin's legendary goal-scoring record is a monumental task, demanding exceptional talent, sustained high-level performance, and remarkable longevity. While no one can guarantee who, if anyone, will surpass Ovechkin's mark, the players highlighted above possess the potential to make a serious run at it. Each player brings unique strengths and challenges to the table, making the race all the more compelling. Keep an eye on these 9 NHL players as they strive to break Alex Ovechkin's legendary goal-scoring record! [Link to Connor McDavid Profile] [Link to Auston Matthews Profile] [Link to NHL Goalscoring Records Page]