By now, Wayne Gretzky`s all-time goal record might already be broken. Alexander Ovechkin has been incredibly focused this week, already scoring four goals. After a two-goal game on Friday night, he only needs one more goal to become the NHL`s all-time leading scorer. With the Washington Capitals playing the New York Islanders on Sunday, it`s highly likely we`ll have a new scoring record holder by Monday.
Gretzky`s record was considered by many to be unbreakable in professional sports. To even challenge it, a player would need to perform at an elite level for an exceptionally long time in a physically demanding sport like hockey, which is almost unheard of. While some players have recently played into their late 30s and early 40s, they usually take on smaller roles with reduced skills. However, Ovechkin continues to score goals at an astonishing rate and shows few signs of slowing down.
In his 39-year-old season, Ovechkin has scored 41 goals in 60 games, despite missing time due to a broken leg. This pace projects to 56 goals over a full season. Even considering the missed games, Ovechkin`s goal production is the highest ever for a 39-year-old, according to Sportsnet Stats.
-
Ovechkin`s Pursuit of the NHL Goals Record
Follow Washington Capitals superstar Alex Ovechkin as he chases Wayne Gretzky`s all-time NHL goals record.
Read more
Most Goals in Age-39 Season
- 1) Alex Ovechkin (2024-25) – 41
- 2) Gordie Howe (1967-68) – 39
- 3) Johnny Bucyk (1974-75) – 29
- 4) Jean Ratelle (1979-80) – 28
- 4) Shane Doan (2015-16) – 28
- 6) Daniel Aldredsson (2011-12) – 27
- 6) Joe Pavelski (2023-24) – 27
- 6) Teemu Selanne (2009-10) – 27
- 9) Joe Nieuwendyk (2005-06) – 26
- 10) Jean Beliveau (1970-71) – 25
- 10) Brett Hull (2003-04) – 25
Most Goals in Age-40 Season
- 1) Gordie Howe (1968-69) – 44
- 2) Johnny Bucyk (1975-76) – 36
- 3) Teemu Selanne (2010-11) – 31
- 4) Dean Prentice (1972-73) – 26
- 5) Mark Messier (2000-01) – 24
- 6) Dave Andreychuk (2003-04) – 21
- 7) Alex Delvecchio (1971-72) – 20
- 7) Gary Roberts (2006-07) – 20
- 9) Nicklas Lidstrom (2010-11) – 16
- 9) Jaromir Jagr (2012-13) – 16
Considering his age and some slow periods last season, some fantasy players avoided Ovechkin this year, and when he was drafted, it was generally much later than in previous years. This turned out to be a mistake. As I often say, a motivated player is valuable in fantasy hockey. Ovechkin clearly aimed to break the all-time goal-scoring record this season, and he remains a significant asset even as he approaches 40.
Looking ahead to next season, Ovechkin is proving he should still be a high priority in fantasy drafts. He continues to provide above-average shots and hits. Even with a potential slight decline, Ovechkin will still offer excellent value to any fantasy team. His playing style is well-suited for continued scoring success as he gets older because he doesn`t rely on speed to create opportunities. His ability to find open space in the offensive zone, combined with his quick shot release, remains a challenge for goalies.
Tristan Blackwood