Ovechkin has scored 892 career goals (as of April 3, 2025).
He needs just 3 more goals to surpass Wayne Gretzky's record of 894.
Despite missing 16 games earlier in the 2024-25 season with a fractured fibula, Ovechkin has scored 39 goals in 59 games.
With 7 games remaining in the Capitals' regular season (as of April 3rd), Ovechkin has a realistic chance to break the record this season.
Wayne Gretzky himself, along with NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman, will be attending all remaining Capitals games until the record falls.
Why this matters:: Breaking Gretzky's record cements Ovechkin's legacy as arguably the greatest goal-scorer in NHL history, achieving a feat many thought impossible in the modern era of hockey. It's a testament to his durability, consistency, and unique scoring prowess over two decades.
The Chase: Alex "The Great 8" Ovechkin entered the 2024-25 season needing 42 goals to catch Gretzky. After a hot start, a fractured left fibula in November sidelined him, but he returned strongly, scoring 24 goals in 41 games since late December. His current pace puts him on track for potentially 44 goals this season, keeping the record within reach before the playoffs.
Record-Breaking Season: Beyond the ultimate goal record, Ovechkin has already hit several milestones this season: passing Gordie Howe for most goals after age 30, achieving his 20th consecutive 20-goal season (second all-time), and setting records for most goalies scored against (182) and most empty-net goals (65). He also tied records for game-winning goals (135) and most franchises against which he has a hat trick (20).
Gretzky vs. Ovechkin: While Gretzky holds the edge in assists (1,963 vs. 724) and points (2,857 vs. 1,616), Ovechkin's relentless goal-scoring, particularly his record 323 power-play goals, defines his unique place in hockey history. As of April 3rd, Ovechkin had played 1,485 career games, just two fewer than Gretzky's total (1,487).
League Preparations: The NHL is ready for the historic moment. Similar to when Gretzky broke Gordie Howe's record, the league plans to halt the game for an on-ice ceremony whenever Ovechkin scores his 895th goal. Special broadcasts like ESPN's 'OviCast' are also highlighting the chase.
Q: How many goals does Alex Ovechkin have right now?
As of April 3, 2025, Alex Ovechkin has 892 career NHL goals.
Q: How many goals does Wayne Gretzky have?
Wayne Gretzky finished his NHL career with 894 goals.
Q: How many goals does Ovechkin need to break the record?
Ovechkin needs 3 more goals to break Gretzky's record (goal #895).
Q: Will Gretzky be there when Ovechkin breaks the record?
Yes, Wayne Gretzky and NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman are attending every remaining Capitals game until the record is broken.
Witnessing history: Fans are potentially days away from seeing one of hockey's most revered records fall.
Ovechkin's resilience: His comeback from injury this season to maintain a record-breaking pace at age 39 is remarkable.
Legacy cemented: This achievement solidifies Ovechkin's place among the absolute legends of the sport.
The anticipation is immense! Do you think Alex Ovechkin will break the record before the end of the regular season? Let us know!
Share this article with others who need to stay ahead of this trend!
USA Today: How many goals does Alex Ovechkin need to pass Wayne Gretzky as NHL's all-time scorer? target="_blank"
NHL.com: Alex Ovechkin closes in on the goal record target="_blank"
Yahoo Sports: Wayne Gretzky, Gary Bettman will attend every Capitals game as Alex Ovechkin closes in target="_blank"
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