Ovechkin's Record In Jeopardy? 9 NHL Players Who Could Break It

5 min read Post on May 10, 2025

Ovechkin's Record In Jeopardy? 9 NHL Players Who Could Break It

The Top Contenders: Stars Already Making Waves

This section profiles the current top contenders – established NHL stars already racking up impressive goal totals and are serious threats to Ovechkin's NHL scoring record.

Connor McDavid (Edmonton Oilers):

Known for his incredible speed, agility, and playmaking ability, Connor McDavid is more than just a setup man. His goal-scoring prowess is steadily improving, making him a prime candidate to challenge the Ovechkin goals record. While his focus has often been on assists, his shot is becoming increasingly lethal.

Current Pace: McDavid consistently scores at a high rate, often exceeding 40 goals per season.
Potential for Sustained Scoring: His age and overall health suggest he has many productive years ahead.
Factors that could help/hinder: Continued strong linemates and consistent offensive zone time will be crucial. Injuries, however, could derail his pursuit.

Leon Draisaitl (Edmonton Oilers):

McDavid's Oilers teammate, Leon Draisaitl, is a prolific scorer with a knack for finding the back of the net. His powerful shot and exceptional vision make him a constant threat. Playing alongside McDavid also provides him with numerous high-quality scoring chances.

Scoring Style: A powerful one-timer and ability to find soft spots in the offensive zone.
Longevity Projections: Similar to McDavid, Draisaitl's age suggests he's got a long career ahead of him.
Likelihood of breaking the record: Draisaitl's consistency and high offensive output put him in a strong position.

Auston Matthews (Toronto Maple Leafs):

Matthews' incredible goal-scoring ability has already established him as a generational talent. His sniper-like accuracy and powerful shot make him a force to be reckoned with.

Scoring Consistency: Matthews regularly hits the 40-goal mark, showcasing his reliability as a high-scorer.
Potential Injury Risks: A history of minor injuries is a concern that could impact his pursuit.
Chances of overtaking Ovechkin: Matthews' talent is undeniable, but consistency and avoiding serious injuries will be key.

The Rising Stars: NHL's Next Generation of Goal Scorers

This section highlights rising stars who display immense potential to become serious contenders for the Ovechkin goals record in the coming years. These young NHL players represent the future of high-scoring forwards.

Jack Hughes (New Jersey Devils):

Hughes' skillset, speed, and offensive capabilities are already making waves. His development curve suggests he could become a truly elite goal scorer.

Offensive Capabilities: Hughes' puck-handling and shot accuracy are exceptional.
Career Trajectory: If he continues on his current path, Hughes is a significant threat.
Statistics: Monitoring his goal totals and assist numbers over the next several seasons will be crucial in assessing his potential.

Kirill Kaprizov (Minnesota Wild):

Kaprizov's scoring style is a blend of skill and grit. His consistency and ability to create scoring opportunities for himself and teammates are impressive.

Scoring Consistency: Kaprizov has shown a capacity for high goal totals.
Factors Contributing to Potential: His talent combined with his team's offensive support.
Statistics: Kaprizov's continued improvement and high scoring output are factors to watch.

Jason Robertson (Dallas Stars):

Robertson’s offensive skills and knack for finding the net are highly impressive. He's already proven himself a high-volume shooter with exceptional accuracy.

Offensive Skills: Robertson is a skilled shooter with a powerful and accurate shot.
Chances of Becoming a Long-Term High-Scorer: His consistency and scoring rate suggest a bright future.
Statistics: Robertson's ongoing statistical performance will be key to assessing his potential.

Dark Horse Candidates: Players with Unexpected Potential

This section explores players who, while perhaps less widely known as top goal scorers, possess the potential for unexpected goal-scoring surges. They represent the "sleeper" picks in the race for the Ovechkin goals record.

Brayden Point (Tampa Bay Lightning):

Point's potential for increased scoring is significant. Playing on a high-powered team like the Lightning presents numerous scoring opportunities.

Potential for Increased Scoring: Point's skillset suggests further improvement.
Factors for Challenging the Record: Sustained health and a consistent top-line role.
Statistics: His recent goal totals and point production will indicate his development.

Mika Zibanejad (New York Rangers):

Zibanejad's scoring ability has shown flashes of brilliance. His potential is bolstered by the offensive firepower of the Rangers.

Scoring Ability: Zibanejad has demonstrated the capacity for high-scoring seasons.
Team's Offensive Capabilities: The Rangers' strong offensive support is a contributing factor.
Possibility of Becoming a Consistent High-Scorer: Consistent high-level play will determine his chances.

Conclusion

Alex Ovechkin's goal-scoring record stands as a testament to his extraordinary talent and dedication. However, the NHL is brimming with incredibly skilled players capable of challenging, and potentially surpassing, this remarkable achievement. The players discussed above represent a diverse range of styles and potential, highlighting the exciting future of NHL goal scoring. The race to break Ovechkin's NHL goals record is far from over, and the next few years promise to be thrilling.

Who do you think will break Ovechkin's NHL goals record? Share your predictions in the comments below! Let the discussion on the future of the Ovechkin's record begin!