9 NHL Players Poised To Break Ovechkin's Goal Record

Laila Abdi

7 min read

Post on May 10, 2025

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Connor McDavid: The Frontrunner?

Exceptional Skill and Playmaking

Connor McDavid possesses an almost supernatural combination of speed, skill, and vision. His ability to dissect defenses and find the back of the net from seemingly impossible angles is unparalleled. He's not just a goal scorer; he's a playmaker who creates scoring opportunities for himself and his linemates.

• High points-per-game average: Consistently among the league leaders in scoring.
• Consistent performance: Maintains a high level of play year after year, showing remarkable consistency.
• Youth and potential for longevity: Still relatively young, giving him ample time to accumulate goals over a long career.

Analyzing McDavid's current goal-scoring pace, and considering his age and continued dominance, it's entirely plausible he could not only surpass Ovechkin but potentially set a new, even more impressive record. His skillset is perfectly designed for sustained high-level offensive production.

Leon Draisaitl: McDavid's Lethal Linemate

Power Forward Prowess

Leon Draisaitl, McDavid's frequent linemate, is a powerhouse in his own right. His size, strength, and exceptional shot accuracy make him a constant threat in the offensive zone. The chemistry between McDavid and Draisaitl is undeniable, resulting in countless scoring opportunities for both players.

• High goal totals: Consistently scores at a high rate, proving his ability to find the net.
• Impressive shot accuracy: A highly accurate shooter, maximizing his chances to score goals.
• Playoff success: Demonstrates his ability to perform under pressure, showcasing his talent on hockey's biggest stage.

Draisaitl's potential to maintain or even increase his scoring output in the coming years is significant, particularly if he continues playing alongside McDavid. Their synergy makes them a formidable force capable of shattering records.

Auston Matthews: The American Sniper

Elite Shot and Scoring Instincts

Auston Matthews possesses one of the most lethal shots in the NHL. His ability to score from anywhere within shooting range is a nightmare for opposing goaltenders. His instincts and positioning are equally impressive, allowing him to consistently find himself in prime scoring positions.

• High shooting percentage: Converts a high percentage of his shots into goals, demonstrating efficiency.
• Consistent goal production: Provides consistent goal-scoring output, a hallmark of elite players.
• Strong overall game: Not solely reliant on scoring, showcasing other aspects that enhance his offensive contributions.

Matthews’ potential for continued success hinges on maintaining his health and consistently strong play. His elite shooting ability makes him a serious contender in the race to break Ovechkin's record.

Jack Hughes: The Emerging Superstar

Dynamic Speed and Skill

Jack Hughes’ electrifying speed and offensive skill are rapidly transforming him into one of the NHL's elite players. His ability to weave through defenders and create scoring chances is remarkable, and his goal-scoring total is steadily increasing.

• Improving goal totals year-on-year: Shows consistent improvement in his goal-scoring ability.
• High assist numbers: Highlights his playmaking abilities which contribute directly to goal scoring.
• Potential for increased scoring: Still relatively young, with significant room for growth and improvement.

Hughes' potential for increased scoring is substantial. As he continues to develop and mature, his goal-scoring total has the potential to skyrocket.

Kirill Kaprizov: The Russian Rocket

Exceptional Puck Handling and Creativity

Kirill Kaprizov's exceptional puck-handling skills and creativity make him a unique and dangerous offensive threat. His ability to create scoring chances out of seemingly nothing is captivating and a clear sign of a truly elite player.

• Consistent goal production: Provides a steady stream of goals, proving his ability to score consistently.
• Ability to create scoring chances: A master at generating his own scoring chances.
• High skill level: Exceptional puck skills and offensive creativity sets him apart.

Kaprizov's likelihood of maintaining his scoring pace depends on his health and continued development, but his unique skills make him a player to watch closely in the years to come.

Nathan MacKinnon: The Explosive Force

Speed, Skill, and Power

Nathan MacKinnon is a force of nature on the ice. His speed, skill, and power make him incredibly difficult to defend, and his goal-scoring ability is a byproduct of his overall dominance.

• High-end speed and agility: Unmatched speed and agility to evade defenders effectively.
• Ability to score from various positions: Not confined to one specific scoring style, offering diversity.
• History of strong goal-scoring: Demonstrates a proven ability to score goals at a high level throughout his career.

MacKinnon's consistency and longevity will be key to challenging Ovechkin's record. If he stays healthy and maintains his elite performance, he could become a serious contender.

Brayden Point: The Silent Assassin

Clinical Finishing and Playoff Performance

Brayden Point is a clinical finisher, demonstrating the ability to capitalize on scoring chances with remarkable precision. His playoff performances further emphasize his knack for scoring clutch goals.

• High playoff goal-scoring totals: Demonstrates an ability to elevate his game in high-pressure situations.
• Consistent regular season production: Provides steady goal-scoring throughout the regular season.
• Excellent hockey IQ: An intelligent player who reads the game very well, enhancing his goal-scoring ability.

Point's ability to elevate his game in crucial moments is a valuable asset. Maintaining this consistency and longevity will be key to his chances of surpassing Ovechkin’s record.

Mika Zibanejad: The Steady Scorer

Powerful Shot and Versatility

Mika Zibanejad's powerful shot and versatility make him a consistent threat on offense. His ability to play multiple roles and still maintain high-level goal scoring is a testament to his all-around game.

• Consistent goal scoring: Provides a consistent flow of goals throughout his career.
• Ability to play different roles: Adaptable player who can successfully contribute in various roles.
• Strong two-way play: A player who excels both offensively and defensively.

Zibanejad's continued success will likely depend on his consistency and health, but his steady performance makes him a potential candidate in this race.

Johnny Gaudreau: The Playmaking Virtuoso

Creative Playmaking and Scoring Ability

Johnny Gaudreau's exceptional vision, puck-handling, and creativity make him a threat to score at any time. While known for assists, his goal-scoring numbers are improving, making him a player to watch in this regard.

• High assist totals: Demonstrates impressive playmaking abilities which contribute to goal-scoring.
• Improving goal-scoring numbers: Showing improvement in his goal-scoring totals, a sign of positive growth.
• Excellent puck skills: Exceptional puck skills allowing him to consistently create scoring opportunities.

Gaudreau's potential to translate his assists into more goals will be key to his chances of seriously challenging Ovechkin’s record. If he can continue to increase his goal-scoring output, he could become a player to watch in the years to come.

Conclusion

While Alex Ovechkin's record is monumental, the NHL is brimming with young, exceptionally talented players capable of challenging and potentially surpassing his achievement. Players like Connor McDavid, Leon Draisaitl, and Auston Matthews are currently at the forefront, but the emergence of stars like Jack Hughes and Kirill Kaprizov indicates a bright future for goal-scoring in the NHL. Keep an eye on these nine players – their pursuit to break Ovechkin's goal record promises an exciting chapter in hockey history. Who do you think will break Ovechkin's goal-scoring record? Let us know in the comments below! Continue to follow the exciting race to break Ovechkin's record and discover more about the next generation of NHL goal-scoring legends.