The Next Ovechkin? 9 NHL Players With Potential To Break His Record

Natalie Brooks

5 min read

Post on May 09, 2025

4.8

Share

Connor Bedard: The Chosen One?

Connor Bedard, the exceptional young talent, is often touted as the next generational goal scorer. His exceptional junior career speaks volumes; he dominated the WHL, showcasing an unparalleled goal-scoring ability that has many comparing him to Ovechkin. Drafted first overall in the 2023 NHL Entry Draft, the hype surrounding Bedard is immense, and rightfully so. His NHL debut only solidified his potential, proving his junior success was no fluke.

• Exceptional hockey IQ: Bedard possesses an uncanny ability to read the play, anticipate opportunities, and find the back of the net with remarkable precision.
• Lightning-quick shot: His release is exceptionally fast, making him difficult to defend, even for the most skilled NHL players.
• High goal-scoring rate in junior leagues: His consistent high goal-scoring rate in junior leagues demonstrates his natural talent and ability to produce consistently.
• Strong on-ice vision: Bedard’s vision allows him to not only score but also create scoring opportunities for his teammates, making him a valuable asset on any line.

Bedard's style, while possessing his own unique flair, exhibits some similarities to Ovechkin’s – a powerful shot, a knack for finding open space, and an unwavering determination to score. While the path to surpassing Ovechkin's record is long, Bedard certainly has the tools to make a serious run.

Matvei Michkov: The Russian Rocket

Matvei Michkov, another highly touted prospect, presents a fascinating case. Playing in the KHL, a highly competitive professional league, Michkov has already demonstrated impressive goal-scoring numbers. His explosive speed and pinpoint accuracy make him a dangerous offensive threat. While comparisons to Ovechkin are inevitable given his Russian heritage and goal-scoring prowess, Michkov brings his own unique blend of skill and intensity.

• Exceptional shot accuracy: Michkov possesses an incredibly accurate shot, finding the corners with remarkable consistency.
• Elite skating ability: His agility and speed allow him to evade defenders and create scoring chances.
• Proven goal-scoring talent in a top professional league: His success in the KHL showcases his ability to perform under pressure in a highly competitive environment.
• Potential for explosive NHL career: With a successful transition to the NHL, Michkov could become one of the league's leading goal scorers.

Michkov's path to the NHL might be slightly more complex than Bedard's, but his talent is undeniable. The combination of his raw skill and experience in a top professional league sets him apart.

Other Promising Young Guns

Beyond Bedard and Michkov, several other young players display the potential to become prolific goal scorers. These rising stars represent a wave of offensive talent in the NHL. While their trajectories might differ, their potential to challenge established records shouldn't be underestimated.

• Shane Wright: Possesses a strong two-way game, consistent scoring ability, physical presence, and potential for offensive improvement.
• Logan Cooley: Known for his exceptional skating skills, playmaking ability, and a developing goal-scoring touch.
• Juraj Slafkovsky: A powerful winger with a strong shot and the potential to become a consistent goal scorer.
• Cole Caufield: Already showcasing an elite goal-scoring touch in the NHL, Caufield needs to improve consistency and avoid injury to reach the highest levels.
• Jason Robertson: Has already demonstrated high-scoring ability in the NHL. Sustaining this high level of play over the long term will be key.
• Kirill Kaprizov: A dynamic offensive talent with elite puck-handling skills and scoring ability. Consistency and avoiding injury will be crucial.
• Jack Hughes: Already showing elite playmaking skills and improving his goal-scoring consistency, Hughes possesses the potential to become a top goal scorer.

Factors Affecting Goal-Scoring Records

Breaking scoring records requires more than just raw talent. Several factors contribute to a player's long-term success:

• NHL scoring records: The history of NHL scoring records provides valuable context and perspective.
• Goal-scoring longevity: Maintaining a high level of play over a long career is crucial.
• Injury prevention: Avoiding significant injuries is paramount for sustained success.
• Team success: Playing on a strong, offensively-minded team significantly increases scoring opportunities.
• Consistent performance: Delivering consistent performances year after year is vital for accumulating goals.

Conclusion:

While Alex Ovechkin's goal-scoring record currently stands as an almost insurmountable feat, the NHL is brimming with young, exceptionally talented players who possess the potential to challenge it. This article highlighted nine promising players whose skill sets and potential trajectory suggest they could be the next generation of prolific goal scorers. From Connor Bedard’s exceptional junior career to Matvei Michkov’s impressive KHL numbers, and the potential of other rising stars, the future of NHL goal scoring is bright and full of exciting possibilities.

Who do you think has the best chance of becoming the next Ovechkin? Share your thoughts and predictions in the comments below! Let's discuss the potential successors to the Great Eight and debate who could eventually break his legendary goal-scoring record.