9 NHL Players Poised To Break Ovechkin's Goal Record

Felix Dubois

5 min read

Post on May 09, 2025

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Connor McDavid: The Reigning Superstar

Connor McDavid, often touted as the best hockey player in the world, possesses a skillset that could potentially lead him to break Ovechkin's record. While primarily known for his dazzling assists and playmaking abilities, McDavid's shot is consistently improving, and his exceptional vision on the ice allows him to find scoring opportunities others miss.

Exceptional Skill and Playmaking Ability

• Goal-scoring pace: McDavid has already shown consistent goal-scoring prowess, averaging over 40 goals per season in recent years. His ability to create scoring chances for himself and others is unparalleled.
• Offensive production: His overall offensive production consistently ranks amongst the NHL's elite, showcasing his versatility and dominance.
• Future projections: Given his age (still relatively young for a hockey player), his current pace, and the length of his lucrative contract, he has ample time to accumulate goals.

The "Wayne Gretzky" Comparison

The comparisons to Wayne Gretzky are inevitable, and for good reason. McDavid's hockey IQ, vision, and playmaking ability mirror Gretzky's legendary skillset. If he can maintain his current offensive production, surpassing Gretzky's assist record is within reach, and a similar pursuit of the goal-scoring record is entirely plausible.

• Gretzky's record: While chasing Gretzky's point record is certainly on the table, McDavid’s focus on shooting might lead him to challenge Ovechkin's goal record first.
• Sustained success: Maintaining his level of performance over an extended period will be key to breaking Ovechkin’s record.

Auston Matthews: The Modern Power Forward

Auston Matthews is a modern power forward, known for his exceptional shot and his ability to score goals from seemingly anywhere on the ice. His consistent goal-scoring prowess makes him a strong contender for surpassing Ovechkin's record.

Consistent Goal-Scoring Prowess

• Career goal totals: Matthews has already amassed an impressive number of goals in his relatively young career, consistently scoring at an elite level.
• Shooting percentage: His high shooting percentage rivals Ovechkin's, demonstrating his accuracy and efficiency in front of the net.
• Longevity: If he maintains his health and continues his current trajectory, Matthews has a realistic chance to play at a high level for another decade.

A Maple Leafs Dynasty in the Making?

The success of the Toronto Maple Leafs will significantly impact Matthews' goal-scoring potential. A sustained period of playoff success, and deep playoff runs, would give Matthews more opportunities to rack up goals.

• Team success: Consistent playoff appearances and deep postseason runs increase the number of games and scoring opportunities.
• Supporting cast: A strong supporting cast helps create more chances for Matthews to score, lessening the pressure on him to carry the team offensively.

Leon Draisaitl: The Versatile Offensive Weapon

Leon Draisaitl is a versatile offensive weapon, capable of scoring goals in a variety of ways. His high point totals and consistent offensive production make him a significant threat to Ovechkin's record.

Exceptional Playmaking and Scoring Ability

• High point totals: Draisaitl consistently ranks among the league leaders in points, showcasing his ability to contribute both goals and assists.
• Scoring versatility: He can score from long range, on the power play, and in tight around the net, showcasing his adaptability.
• Growth potential: Draisaitl is still relatively young, and his offensive abilities seem to be continually evolving.

The Oilers' Supporting Cast

The presence of Connor McDavid undoubtedly influences Draisaitl's offensive output, creating more opportunities for both players. However, Draisaitl's talent is undeniable, and he has proven himself capable of scoring even when McDavid's not directly involved.

• Independent scoring: Draisaitl has the ability to score goals even without McDavid's direct assistance, showcasing his individual skillset.
• Team chemistry: The strong chemistry between McDavid and Draisaitl suggests a long-term, high-scoring partnership.

Other Contenders

Several other players have the potential to make a run at Ovechkin's record. While their paths may be slightly less clear, their talent is undeniable:

• Kirill Kaprizov: Exceptional skill and a knack for finding the back of the net, showcasing a potent offensive threat.
• Jack Hughes: Explosive speed and developing offensive instincts, with immense potential for future growth.
• Jason Robertson: A consistent goal scorer with a lethal shot and improving all-around game.
• Mika Zibanejad: A powerful shooter with strong playmaking abilities, capable of high goal totals.
• Brayden Point: A consistently productive player known for his clutch performances and finishing ability.
• Patrick Kane: While nearing the end of his career, his elite offensive talent can't be overlooked in the final push.

Conclusion

While Ovechkin's record stands as a testament to his skill and dedication, the future of NHL goal-scoring is bright. The nine players discussed above—McDavid, Matthews, Draisaitl, Kaprizov, Hughes, Robertson, Zibanejad, Point, and Kane—all possess the talent and potential to challenge and potentially break Ovechkin's goal record. Their chances will hinge on factors such as age, team success, injury history, and sustained high levels of performance. While predicting the future is difficult, the potential for a new generation of goal-scoring legends is clear. Who do you think will break Ovechkin’s goal record? Share your predictions in the comments!