Alex Ovechkin, the Washington Capitals’ iconic team captain, has cemented his legacy as the greatest goal-scorer in hockey history. Drafted first overall in 2004, Ovechkin burst onto the NHL scene with a rare blend of power, precision, and unrelenting passion. His rookie season in 2005-06 showcased his brilliance, as he netted 52 goals to claim the Calder Trophy. From there, the ‘Great 8’ redefined the art of scoring, amassing a staggering collection of accolades: a record nine Maurice Richard Trophies as the league’s top goal-scorer, three Hart Trophies as MVP, and a long-awaited Stanley Cup in 2018, where he earned the Conn Smythe Trophy as playoff MVP.
Ovechkin’s journey to the top is a testament to his durability and consistency, chasing Wayne Gretzky’s seemingly untouchable record of 894 career goals with his signature one-timer from the left circle—a shot feared by goaltenders across the league.
After tying Gretzky in his previous outing, Ovechkin entered a highly anticipated road game against the New York Islanders needing just one more to stand alone. Midway through the second period, the Capitals went on the power play. As Tom Wilson carried the puck into the zone, he spotted Ovechkin set up on the left side. With the pass delivered cleanly to his stick near the top of the circle, Ovechkin unleashed a wrist shot short-side—beating the goaltender and finding the back of the net.
With that, goal number 895 was in the books. Ovechkin had done it—surpassing Gretzky and ascending to the top of the NHL’s all-time goal-scoring list. Beyond the numbers, his infectious joy, relentless work ethic, and love for the game have made him a global ambassador for hockey. This highlight celebrates the moment Ovechkin became the NHL’s undisputed goal king—a crowning achievement in a career defined by greatness.