For decades, no one would have expected that Wayne Gretzky’s all-time leading goal record would be broken. Washington Capitals left winger Alexander Ovechkin has just accomplished that feat, putting his name in the record books. He scored his 895th goal in a 4-1 loss to the New York Islanders on Sunday, April 6, 2025, against goaltender Ilya Sorokin.
Ovechkin was drafted first by the Washington Capitals in the 2004 NHL Draft. He captured the Calder Trophy for rookie of the year while scoring third in the league. He made a name for himself with his exceptional scoring ability and power presence on the ice.
Before beating this record, Ovechkin scored the most power-play goals, shots on goal and goalies scored against, now including Sorokin. Ovechkin had never scored against Sorokin before, making that the 183rd different goaltender he has ever scored against. This 13-time All-Star player has won many awards throughout his career, including the Hart Memorial Trophy, the Conn Smythe Trophy and the Art Ross Trophy.
He has 42 goals this season despite missing 16 games due to an injury. He had passed 40 goals in a season for the 14th time, two more than Gretzky. Earlier in the 2024-25 season, Ovechkin became the sixth player with 700 goals and assists. This Capitals star remains one of the most dangerous goal scorers in the league despite being 39 years old. His slap shot from the left dot still dominates the game, even as he is in his 20th season.
Records are made to be broken, and Ovechkin did just that. Gretzky still holds the most points and assists in history. After one of the most exciting races that NHL fans watched, Ovechkin is now the greatest goal scorer the NHL has seen.
With 895 goals and counting, Ovechkin has not only beaten this record but redefined greatness in the modern NHL. While Gretzky remains the GOAT of the NHL, Ovechkin now holds a title of his own, and his legacy will last for future generations.
