Alex Ovechkin`s 895th goal against the New York Islanders marked a historic moment, crowning him as the NHL`s greatest goal scorer. His two-decade pursuit of Wayne Gretzky`s record is filled with remarkable achievements.
Gretzky`s once-untouchable goal record seemed insurmountable until Ovechkin`s arrival. Bursting onto the scene with 52 rookie goals in 2005-06, Ovechkin maintained an incredible scoring pace for twenty years.
Ovechkin`s exceptional longevity and consistency have resulted in extraordinary statistics, surpassing Gretzky in several key areas. He has distinguished himself particularly with power play goals, clutch performances, and scoring on the road.
Ovechkin`s ascent to become the NHL`s all-time goals leader is a story of perseverance. We delve into the numbers behind his achievement, with insights from CBS Sports research.
Games Played: A Testament to Endurance
Many believed Gretzky`s record would stand forever. Ovechkin not only broke it but did so in the same number of games, 1,487. Reaching this milestone in a physically demanding sport like hockey is an achievement in itself, even before considering the record.
Even-Strength Goals: Chasing Howe and Gretzky
While celebrated for his power play prowess, Ovechkin`s 565 even-strength goals are noteworthy, just behind Gordie Howe for second-most in NHL history. Gretzky leads this category with 617, but Ovechkin is closing in.
Power Play Goals: The Undisputed King
A hallmark of Ovechkin`s greatness is his unstoppable power play shot. Opponents know his signature one-timer from the left circle is coming, yet they remain unable to defend it. His record-breaking goal was his 325th power play goal.
Empty-Net Goals: Context and Dominance
Ovechkin`s 65 empty-net goals are often discussed, but should not diminish his accomplishment. Considering the higher-scoring era Gretzky played in and the improved goaltending today, this number is balanced. Furthermore, empty-net goals reflect team success, and Ovechkin`s teams have been winners. Notably, his record-breaking goal was not an empty-netter.
Shorthanded Goals: An Unexpected Stat
Ovechkin`s 5 shorthanded goals are perhaps surprising, given his offensive reputation. This tally, though modest, indicates an occasional defensive contribution, with his last shorthanded goal in 2021-22.
Penalty Shot Goals: Rare Opportunities
With 2 penalty shot goals, Ovechkin has doubled Gretzky`s total in this category. The fact that these two legendary scorers have only three combined penalty shot goals is remarkable.
Game-Winning Goals: Clutch Performer
Ovechkin holds the record for game-winning goals with 136, surpassing Jaromir Jagr. His ability to perform in crucial moments, especially in the 3-on-3 overtime era, highlights his impact.
Hat Tricks: Consistency Over Explosiveness
While Gretzky had more explosive scoring games, Ovechkin`s 32 hat tricks demonstrate his consistent scoring ability. He trails Gretzky by 18 hat tricks, highlighting Ovechkin`s steady production over nearly 1,500 games.
65-Goal Season: Peak Seasons Compared
Ovechkin`s highest season total of 65 goals is impressive but doesn`t reach Gretzky`s peak of 92 and 87 goals in a season. However, Ovechkin`s durability and consistent scoring have been key to his overall record.
14 40-Goal Seasons: Unmatched Consistency
Ovechkin`s 893rd goal, bringing him close to Gretzky`s record, also marked his 14th 40-goal season, extending his own NHL record. His ability to consistently reach the 40-goal mark is unparalleled.
14-Game Goal Drought: Remarkable Consistency
Ovechkin`s longest goal drought is only 14 games, a testament to his consistent scoring, aided by his power play role. Gretzky`s longest drought was 21 games, further emphasizing Ovechkin`s reliability as a scorer.
Road Goals: Thriving Away from Home
Ovechkin`s 456 road goals are an NHL record, showcasing his ability to score anywhere. While Washington fans see him regularly, fans across the league have witnessed his scoring prowess firsthand.
Goals Against a Single Opponent: Haunting the Jets
Ovechkin has scored 57 goals against the Atlanta Thrashers/Winnipeg Jets franchise, a result of playing in the same division for years. Interestingly, Gretzky also scored the most goals against a Jets franchise, the original Winnipeg Jets (now Arizona Coyotes/Utah).
