Alex Ovechkin is closing in on Wayne Gretzky for the all-time NHL goals record. In his pursuit of Gretzky, Ovechkin has passed one hockey legend after another while climbing through the top 10.
As a rookie in 2005-06, Ovechkin established himself as a prolific scorer with 52 goals en route to winning the Calder Trophy. Since then, Ovechkin has only maintained his torrid scoring pace while winning just about every award a hockey player can hope to place in his trophy case.
While flying up the all-time goals list, Ovechkin has joined and placed himself above the greatest players ever to lace up a pair of skates. Back in 2022, Ovechkin took over sole possession of second place when he passed Gordie “Mr. Hockey” Howe with his 802nd career goal.
Being sandwiched between Howe and Gretzky (and eventually above both) is a good place to be, Ovechkin was already in good company. Three-time Stanley Cup champion Steve Yzerman, another Detroit Red Wings legend, sits at No. 10 on the list.
The only person near Ovechkin who could be remotely considered a modern peer is Jaromir Jagr, who played 24 seasons from 1990-2018. Jagr’s 766 goals are fourth all-time in NHL history, but he did the vast majority of that damage before Ovechkin entered the league.
As Ovechkin inches closer to Gretzky’s record, here are the NHL’s top 10 all-time goal scorers.
10. Steve Yzerman | 692
Years: 1983-2006
Games: 1,514
Teams: Detroit Red Wings
9. Mark Messier | 694
Years: 1979-2004
Games: 1,756
Teams: Edmonton Oilers, New York Rangers, Vancouver Canucks
8. Mike Gartner | 708
Years: 1979-1998
Games: 1,432
Teams: Washington Capitals, Minnesota North Stars, New York Rangers, Toronto Maple Leafs, Phoenix Coyotes
7. Phil Esposito | 717
Years: 1963-1981
Games: 1,282
Teams: Chicago Blackhawks, Boston Bruins, New York Rangers
6. Marcel Dionne | 731
Years: 1971-1989
Games: 1,348
Teams: Detroit Red Wings, Los Angeles Kings, New York Rangers
5. Brett Hull | 741
Years: 1986-2006
Games: 1,269
Teams: Calgary Flames, St. Louis Blues, Dallas Stars, Detroit Red Wings, Phoenix Coyotes
4. Jaromir Jagr | 766
Years: 1990-2018
Games: 1,733
Teams: Pittsburgh Penguins, Washington Capitals, New York Rangers, Philadelphia Flyers, Dallas Starts, Boston Bruins, New Jersey Devils, Florida Panthers, Calgary Flames
3. Gordie Howe | 801
Years: 1946-1980
Games: 1,767
Teams: Detroit Red Wings, Hartford Whalers
2. Alex Ovechkin | 886
Years: 2005-Present
Games: 1,575
Teams: Washington Capitals
1. Wayne Gretzky | 894
Years: 1979-1999
Games: 1,487
Teams: Edmonton Oilers, Los Angeles Kings, St. Louis Blues, New York Rangers
Alexander Ovechkin, often referred to as “Ovi,” is undoubtedly one of the greatest players in NHL history. The Russian-born forward has consistently been a dominant force on the ice since he entered the league in 2005. With his incredible goal-scoring ability and physical presence, Ovechkin has solidified his place among the all-time greats.
As of the 2021-2022 NHL season, Ovechkin ranks fourth on the all-time goal leaders list with over 730 goals to his name. He is only behind legends like Wayne Gretzky, Gordie Howe, and Jaromir Jagr. Ovechkin’s goal-scoring prowess is truly remarkable, as he has reached the 50-goal mark eight times in his career, including a career-high 65 goals in the 2007-2008 season.
What sets Ovechkin apart from other players is his unique combination of skill, strength, and determination. His powerful shot and quick release make him a constant threat on the ice, while his physical play and willingness to go to the dirty areas have earned him the respect of his peers.
In addition to his impressive goal-scoring numbers, Ovechkin has also been a consistent performer in the playoffs. He led the Washington Capitals to their first Stanley Cup victory in franchise history in 2018, earning the Conn Smythe Trophy as the playoff MVP in the process.
Ovechkin’s impact on the game goes beyond just his individual accomplishments. He has been a leader both on and off the ice, serving as captain of the Capitals since 2010. His work ethic and passion for the game have inspired a new generation of players and fans alike.
When it comes to ranking Ovechkin among the greatest players in NHL history, there is no doubt that he belongs in the conversation. His goal-scoring ability, leadership skills, and impact on the game make him a true legend of the sport. As he continues to climb the all-time goal leaders list and add to his already impressive resume, Ovechkin’s legacy as one of the greatest players in NHL history is secure.
