NHL's Next Generation: 9 Players Who Could Surpass Ovechkin

Laila Abdi

5 min read

Post on May 10, 2025

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Connor Bedard: The Next Great One?

Connor Bedard isn't just a highly-touted NHL prospect; he's a generational talent. His junior hockey career has been nothing short of spectacular, showcasing an offensive skillset reminiscent of hockey's greats. Bedard's dominance in the WHL speaks volumes about his potential to become a prolific goal scorer in the NHL.

• Exceptional Skills: Bedard possesses a rare combination of speed, exceptional puck-handling skills, pinpoint shot accuracy, and remarkable playmaking ability. His vision on the ice allows him to create scoring chances seemingly out of thin air.
• Prolific Goal-Scoring Potential: His ability to find the back of the net with consistency is what sets him apart. Many scouts predict he will be a consistent 40+ goal scorer in the NHL, a crucial step towards challenging Ovechkin's record.
• NHL Draft Impact: Bedard's selection in the 2023 NHL Entry Draft was highly anticipated and immediately elevated expectations for his team. His immediate impact on the NHL is expected to be significant. His trajectory strongly suggests he's a top contender for breaking Ovechkin's record.

Matvei Michkov: The Russian Rocket

Matvei Michkov is another name frequently mentioned in discussions about the NHL's future goal-scoring elite. Playing in the KHL, Michkov has displayed an incredible knack for finding the back of the net, showcasing a raw talent that has captured the attention of scouts worldwide.

• Explosive Offensive Abilities: Michkov's powerful shot, combined with a lightning-quick release, makes him a constant threat. His offensive instincts are exceptional, allowing him to anticipate plays and capitalize on scoring opportunities.
• Transitioning to the NHL: The transition from the KHL to the NHL is always challenging, especially for young players. Michkov's adaptation to the faster pace and physicality of the NHL will be a key factor in determining his long-term success.
• High-Scoring Potential: Despite the challenges, Michkov's raw talent suggests he has the potential to be a high-scoring forward in the NHL, potentially reaching Ovechkin-esque levels of production.

Other Rising Stars with Ovechkin-Level Potential

While Bedard and Michkov are frontrunners, several other young players possess the potential to challenge Ovechkin's record. Let's explore some of the most promising talents:

Shane Wright: A Solid Center Prospect

Shane Wright, despite a slightly slower start to his NHL career, remains a highly skilled center prospect with a strong work ethic. His strengths lie in his hockey IQ and two-way play. His goal-scoring potential may not be as explosive as Bedard or Michkov, but consistent improvement could still place him in contention.

Logan Cooley: Offensive Dynamo

Logan Cooley is a dynamic offensive player known for his exceptional puck skills and playmaking abilities. While his goal-scoring is a key element of his game, his overall contribution to offense is what sets him apart. His playmaking talent could set up goals for himself and his teammates, influencing the game overall.

Juraj Slafkovský: Power Forward Potential

Juraj Slafkovský possesses impressive size and physicality, attributes that could translate into powerful shots and dominance in front of the net. His development will be key to unlocking his full goal-scoring potential. He is a high-potential prospect who could emerge as a surprise contender.

Owen Power: Two-Way Defenseman with Offense

While a defenseman, Owen Power's offensive abilities are noteworthy. His ability to contribute from the blue line could translate into significant goal production over the course of his NHL career. Defensemen with high offensive skills are always valuable to any team.

Luke Hughes: Offensive Defenseman

Another offensive defenseman, Luke Hughes's playmaking skills and ability to quarterback the power play from the blue line have the potential to lead to a significant number of goals over his career. His offensive talent mirrors that of his brothers, Jack and Quinn Hughes.

Cole Caufield: Established NHL Goal Scorer

Cole Caufield has already established himself as a goal scorer in the NHL. His shot accuracy and release make him a dangerous player, already displaying consistent goal-scoring potential. His growth and consistency in the NHL will be crucial to watch.

Jason Robertson: Established NHL Goal Scorer

Similar to Caufield, Jason Robertson is another already-established goal scorer, showing impressive offensive skills and consistency in the NHL. With continued development, his goal-scoring could reach even higher levels.

Conclusion

The NHL's next generation is brimming with talent, and the potential for one of these nine players to surpass Ovechkin's record is undeniably exciting. Each player possesses unique strengths and presents a different path to reaching that lofty goal. From Connor Bedard's exceptional all-around skills to Matvei Michkov's explosive offensive abilities and the established goal-scoring prowess of Cole Caufield and Jason Robertson, the future of NHL goal-scoring is bright. Who do you think will be the next player to surpass Ovechkin's incredible goal-scoring record? Let us know in the comments below! Keep following the NHL's next generation for more exciting updates on who could be the next to break Ovechkin's record!