Washington Capitals star Alex Ovechkin is a legendary figure in NHL history. Already cemented in history, the forward is now pursuing Wayne Gretzky`s all-time goal record.
At 39, Ovechkin is close to becoming the NHL`s all-time goals leader, potentially surpassing Gretzky`s record of 894 before this season concludes. He currently holds 890 career goals, after scoring his 37th of the season against the Buffalo Sabres on Sunday, narrowing the gap in an 8-5 loss. Ovechkin also contributed an assist to teammate Pierre Luc Dubois in the same game.
With nine games remaining in the 2024-25 season, Ovechkin needs just five more goals to break Gretzky`s record this season.
While Ovechkin appears on track to break Gretzky`s record, the approaching end of the regular season leaves little room for error. Maintaining his current scoring pace could see Ovechkin break the record by April 17, the final day of the regular season.
Multiple-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 schedule 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)
Ovechkin`s career totals include 1,613 points (890 goals, 723 assists). On March 9th, he became the 11th player in NHL history to reach 1,600 points.
Alex Ovechkin
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Ovechkin scored 42 goals in the 2022-23 season, and has achieved at least 41 goals in 13 of his 19 NHL seasons.
In 2023-24, he set an NHL record with his 18th 30-goal season, surpassing Mike Gartner`s 17. He now has 19 such seasons in his career.
Keep following CBS Sports for updates on Ovechkin`s goal count and his pursuit of Gretzky`s all-time record.
