For the last thirty one years, Wayne Gretzky held the record for most goals scored in NHL (National Hockey League) history. Gretzky played from 1979-1999, taking part in a whopping twenty seasons. He has played for top teams like the New York Rangers, Edmonton Oilers, St. Louis Blues, Phoenix Coyotes, Los Angeles Kings, and more. With a record of four Stanley Cup Playoff wins (1984,185,1987,and 1988), 1,963 assists, over five trophies, and 894 goals, he is considered the greatest hockey player of all time. His jersey number, 99, was even retired in 2000.
But with new players on the rise everyday, is he still the greatest? Well, in October of 2005, Russian player, Alex Ovechkin made his NHL debut as a left wing for the Washington Capitals. This debut game made history, as Ovechkin was one of the few rookies to play and score two goals against the Columbus Blue Jackets. Ovechkin quickly gained popularity with hockey fans across the country. Capitals fan or not, everyone appreciated his effortless skating, and perfect execution of plays. He was a first round, first pick for the NHL draft and has remained on the Washington Capitals, where he currently acts as captain.
On April 6, 2025 Ovechkin did the impossible. He scored his 895th career goal, making him the new record holder. Not only did he pass Gretzky’s record, he did it in one less game than Gretzky. Furthermore, he continues to play, raising the record even higher as he continues to score. In 2016, Ovechkin was interviewed by Sports Illustrated Magazine, and stated that breaking Gretzky’s record was simply “impossible” and would require him to play “six seasons straight with fifty goals.” Then, in 2018, he maintained his belief that breaking the record was an unachievable task and even said he’d be “playing till I’m sixty” to have a chance at achieving it. Well, at just 39 years old, Ovechkin has raised the record to 897 goals, truly living up to his nickname the”Gr-8 one.” His jersey number, 8, is even rumored to get retired when he leaves the league, much like Gretzky’s before him. Ovechkin has indicated that he plans to retire from the League after the 2025-2026 season, when his contract with the Washington Capitals expires.
This was a monumental moment that changed hockey forever. When he completed this goal, Wayne Gretzky himself was amazed and walked out during the following ceremony to hug, handshake, and congratulate him on the incredible feat. April 6th, 2025 will go down as one of the greatest days in hockey history.
