Ovechkin's Record In Jeopardy: 9 Players With A Shot At The Top

Aria Freeman

6 min read

Post on May 10, 2025

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The Top Contenders: Players Poised to Break the Record

This group of players possesses the offensive firepower and consistent scoring ability to realistically challenge Ovechkin's record.

Connor McDavid (Edmonton Oilers): The Leading Candidate

Connor McDavid is widely considered the leading candidate to break Ovechkin's NHL goals record. His exceptional point totals year after year speak for themselves. He consistently leads the league in scoring, showcasing not just his goal-scoring prowess, but also his incredible playmaking ability.

• High Goal-Scoring Potential: McDavid's shot accuracy is elite, and his vision allows him to create scoring chances for himself and his teammates. This combination makes him a truly prolific goal scorer.
• Factors Impacting his Chances: While his talent is undeniable, maintaining peak performance, avoiding significant injuries, and playing at a high level for another decade are crucial factors determining if he'll reach Ovechkin's mark. His continued success hinges on staying healthy and consistently dominating the NHL.

Leon Draisaitl (Edmonton Oilers): McDavid's Lethal Teammate

Playing alongside Connor McDavid has undoubtedly boosted Leon Draisaitl's offensive output. He's a prolific scorer in his own right, consistently posting impressive goal totals. His ability to find the back of the net, both at even strength and on the power play, makes him a formidable threat.

• Prolific Scorer: Draisaitl possesses a powerful shot and excellent hockey sense. His ability to anticipate plays and position himself for scoring opportunities is second to none.
• Challenges: While he is a high-volume scorer, his reliance on power-play goals might be a concern. Furthermore, maintaining his elite scoring pace as he enters his prime and beyond will be a key factor in his pursuit of the record.

Auston Matthews (Toronto Maple Leafs): The Shooting Star

Auston Matthews is renowned for his incredibly powerful and accurate shot, making him a constant threat to opposing goalies. He's consistently ranked among the league's top goal scorers. His ability to find the back of the net from a variety of angles makes him a nightmare for opposing defenses.

• Powerful Shot: Matthews' release is exceptionally quick and accurate. He’s a master of getting the puck on net quickly and effectively.
• Challenges: Matthews' injury history is a potential impediment. Maintaining his elite offensive production as he ages will also be a critical factor in his chances of catching Ovechkin.

The Emerging Threats: Players with Significant Potential

This group is on the rise and poses a legitimate threat to the top contenders. Their combination of skill and potential makes them dark horses in the race to break Ovechkin’s record.

Jack Hughes (New Jersey Devils): The Dynamic Playmaker

Jack Hughes is a dynamic player with exceptional speed, skill, and vision. He is constantly creating scoring chances and, as he continues to develop, his goal-scoring numbers are expected to significantly increase. His playmaking ability also creates numerous high-danger scoring chances for his linemates.

• Improving Goal Totals: As Hughes matures and refines his game, his goal-scoring output will likely see substantial growth. His ability to anticipate plays will give him many opportunities.
• Challenges: Maintaining consistency and avoiding plateaus in his development will be key for Hughes' pursuit of the NHL's top goal scorer title.

Kirill Kaprizov (Minnesota Wild): The Russian Sniper

Kirill Kaprizov's exceptional shot accuracy and lightning-quick release are his trademarks. His offensive instincts and consistent point production make him a dangerous player. His skillset is tailor-made for goal-scoring.

• Deadly Release: Kaprizov's quick release and ability to pick corners makes him incredibly difficult to defend against. His goals are often highlight-reel worthy.
• Challenges: Maintaining his elite offensive skills and staying healthy throughout a long NHL career will be critical for Kaprizov.

Brayden Point (Tampa Bay Lightning): The Clutch Performer

Brayden Point is a proven clutch performer, known for his ability to score crucial goals in pressure situations. His adaptability and consistent point production makes him another strong candidate.

• Consistent Production: Point's ability to produce points consistently throughout the season, not just in the playoffs, demonstrates his offensive talent.
• Challenges: Staying healthy and maintaining a high level of play as he gets older are key factors impacting his chances of breaking Ovechkin's record.

Long Shots, But Still in the Conversation

While less likely than the previous groups, these players still possess the talent and potential to make a significant impact on the NHL's scoring landscape.

Nathan MacKinnon (Colorado Avalanche): The All-Around Talent

Nathan MacKinnon is an exceptional all-around talent with blazing speed and incredible skill. While he's more known for his playmaking, his goal-scoring ability is undeniable. However, consistency needs to improve to truly be considered a major contender.

• Exceptional Talent: MacKinnon's speed and skill make him a threat to score from anywhere on the ice. His offensive upside is still very much present.
• Challenges: A history of injuries and a tendency to prioritize assists over goals could hinder his progress toward the record.

Mika Zibanejad (New York Rangers): The Power Forward

Mika Zibanejad is a strong power forward with a powerful shot and impressive power-play production. His consistent scoring totals over several seasons make him a wildcard in this conversation.

• Consistent Scorer: Zibanejad consistently puts up solid goal totals, showcasing his offensive reliability.
• Challenges: Maintaining high scoring totals over the course of a long and potentially aging career will pose the greatest obstacle.

Patrick Kane (Chicago Blackhawks/Future Team): The Veteran Maestro

Patrick Kane is a veteran player with exceptional puck-handling skills and playmaking ability. His future goal totals are heavily dependent on his continued success and where he lands during his next stage of his NHL career.

• Veteran Experience: Kane's experience and offensive skillset are undeniable assets. His future team will be a big factor in his chances.
• Challenges: His age, and potential shift to a less prominent offensive role, will significantly impact his goal scoring totals in the future.

Conclusion

While Alex Ovechkin's NHL goals record currently seems untouchable, the next generation of NHL stars is closing in. Players like Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl are clear frontrunners, but several other emerging talents pose significant threats to Ovechkin's legendary status. The coming years promise exciting hockey as we watch these players chase the elusive NHL scoring record. Keep your eye on these nine players – they might just rewrite the record books! Who do you think will break Ovechkin's NHL goals record? Let us know in the comments below!