Can Anyone Beat Ovechkin? 9 NHL Players With A Realistic Chance

5 min read Post on May 10, 2025

Can Anyone Beat Ovechkin? 9 NHL Players With A Realistic Chance

The Current Top Contenders – Chasing Ovechkin's Legacy

Several current NHL superstars are in a prime position to chase Ovechkin's record. Their skill, consistency, and remaining years in the league give them a legitimate shot at making history.

Connor McDavid (Edmonton Oilers): Speed, Skill, and Scoring Prowess

Connor McDavid possesses an exceptional skillset rarely seen in the NHL. While renowned for his incredible playmaking ability and assist totals, McDavid's goal-scoring potential is often underestimated. With his lightning-fast speed, exceptional stickhandling, and an already impressive goal-scoring record, a shift in focus towards more selfish play could see him dramatically increase his goal tally in the coming years. At a relatively young age, McDavid has several prime seasons left to make a serious run at Ovechkin’s record.

Exceptional playmaking ability
Lightning-fast speed
Already a high goal scorer (although assists are a higher priority now)
Years left in his prime

Leon Draisaitl (Edmonton Oilers): A Consistent Goal-Scoring Machine

Playing alongside McDavid provides Leon Draisaitl with ample scoring opportunities, and he consistently capitalizes on them. His high shot volume and excellent shot accuracy make him a constant threat. A significant portion of his goals come on the powerplay, highlighting his prowess in crucial situations. While his current focus might not be solely on goals, a subtle shift could dramatically boost his numbers.

High shot volume
Excellent shot accuracy
Strong on the powerplay
Plays alongside McDavid (a significant advantage)

Auston Matthews (Toronto Maple Leafs): A Natural Sniper

Auston Matthews is an elite sniper known for his exceptional shooting accuracy and ability to score from seemingly impossible angles. His powerful shot is a nightmare for goalies, and his high goal-scoring percentage speaks for itself. However, a history of injuries raises concerns about his longevity, potentially impacting his ability to sustain the high goal-scoring pace needed to catch Ovechkin.

Elite sniper
Incredible shot power
High goal-scoring percentage
Potential for injury concerns

The Rising Stars – Future Threats to Ovechkin's Record

While the current top contenders are making their push, a new generation of players is emerging, possessing the potential to challenge Ovechkin's legacy in the years to come.

Jack Hughes (New Jersey Devils): The Next Generation of Skill

Jack Hughes' explosive speed and elite stickhandling make him a force to be reckoned with. While his playmaking is currently a priority, his shot accuracy is steadily improving. As he matures and potentially focuses more on goal scoring, his numbers could significantly increase, making him a dark horse in the race to surpass Ovechkin.

Explosive speed
Elite stickhandling
Improving shot accuracy
Potential for increased goal scoring

Kirill Kaprizov (Minnesota Wild): A Dynamic Offensive Force

Kirill Kaprizov’s exceptional puck-handling skills and unpredictable playing style make him incredibly difficult to defend. His ability to score from various positions on the ice, coupled with his excellent shot accuracy, sets him apart. His offensive IQ is high, and his goal-scoring potential is vast.

Exceptional puck handling
Unpredictable plays
Excellent shot accuracy
High offensive IQ

Jason Robertson (Dallas Stars): Consistent and Prolific Scorer

Jason Robertson's consistent goal-scoring ability is noteworthy. His high shot volume, strong net-front presence, and excellent shot placement make him a constant threat. Robertson's dedication and consistent performance solidify his place among those with the potential to challenge Ovechkin's record.

High shot volume
Strong net-front presence
Consistent goal scorer
Excellent shot placement

The Long Shots – Dark Horse Candidates

These players might face a steeper climb to challenge Ovechkin, but their skill and potential shouldn't be discounted.

Brayden Point (Tampa Bay Lightning): Clutch Performer

Brayden Point is a clutch performer known for scoring crucial goals in high-pressure situations. His strong playmaking ability and smart offensive play make him a valuable asset to any team, though consistency in his goal scoring might be an area for growth.

Clutch performer
Strong playmaking ability
Smart offensive player
Consistent points producer (but needs to increase goals)

Mika Zibanejad (New York Rangers): Power Forward Potential

Mika Zibanejad possesses a powerful shot and can score from distance. While his potential is there, consistency remains a challenge. Improving this aspect of his game would dramatically increase his chances.

Powerful shot
Excellent wrist shot
Strong on the power play
Needs more consistency

Patrick Kane (Chicago Blackhawks/Other): Veteran with Scoring Touch

Patrick Kane’s veteran experience and scoring touch are undeniable assets, but his age presents a significant challenge. While his offensive IQ remains high, the physical demands of the NHL at his stage of career might limit his potential to seriously challenge Ovechkin's record.

Veteran scoring touch
Excellent playmaker
High offensive IQ
Age a significant factor

Conclusion

While Alex Ovechkin's goal-scoring record is undoubtedly impressive, several NHL players possess the talent and potential to challenge it. Players like Connor McDavid, Leon Draisaitl, and Auston Matthews are the most immediate threats, while rising stars like Jack Hughes and Kirill Kaprizov represent the future of NHL goal scoring. Whether anyone can ultimately beat Ovechkin remains to be seen, but the race to the top promises to be an exciting one. Keep following these players’ progress to see who can challenge Ovechkin's legendary goal-scoring dominance! Who do you think has the best chance to beat Ovechkin? Let us know in the comments!