📈 Ovechkin’s Current Goal Total (As of 2025)
Alex Ovechkin continues to defy age and expectations.
As of April 2025, here’s where things stand:
- Ovechkin: 853 career goals (and counting)
- Gretzky: 894 career goals
That means Ovechkin is just 41 goals away from making history.
At this pace, it’s not a matter of if—it’s a matter of when.
⏳ How Fast Is Ovechkin Catching Up?
Let’s talk about consistency. Ovechkin has been scoring 35–45 goals per season, even in his late 30s.
In Numbers:
- If he scores 40 goals per season, he could break Gretzky’s record by early 2026.
- Even if he slows to 25–30 goals, it’s still within reach in 2–3 seasons.
Staying healthy and motivated are the key pieces here.
🧠 Why This Record Is So Hard to Break
To truly understand the chase, you need to know how tough this record really is.
Here’s why Gretzky’s goal record stood for decades:
- Longevity: Gretzky played 20 seasons.
- Scoring Era: He played in a time when scoring was easier.
- Playmaking: He wasn’t just a goal scorer—he had 1,963 assists!
Ovechkin, on the other hand:
- Played through lower-scoring eras
- Faced stronger goaltending and defensive systems
- Still managed nine 50-goal seasons
That’s wild. 😮
🥇 Ovechkin vs Gretzky: Legacy in Perspective
Let’s not forget — this chase isn’t just about numbers. It’s also about impact and legacy.
Gretzky’s Legacy:
- “The Great One” holds 61 NHL records
- Revolutionized the game
- Still seen as the most dominant force in hockey
Ovechkin’s Legacy:
- Best pure goal scorer of all time
- Changed how we view goal scoring
- Icon for the modern era
So, even if Ovechkin doesn’t break the record, his place in NHL history is already legendary.
🧾 Summary: How Close Is Ovechkin to Gretzky?
| Player | Goals | Seasons Played | Active/Retired |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wayne Gretzky | 894 | 20 | Retired |
| Alex Ovechkin | 853 | 20 (and counting) | Active |
Key Takeaways:
- Ovechkin is 41 goals behind Gretzky
- He could break the record within the next 1–2 seasons
- His consistency and power play ability keep him on track
📊 Fun Fact: Gretzky Would Still Lead Without Goals
Here’s a wild stat:
If Gretzky had scored zero goals, he’d still be the NHL’s all-time points leader just from assists. 🤯
That’s how much of a playmaker he was.
🧠 Bonus: What Age Did Gretzky Retire?
Wayne Gretzky retired at age 38 in 1999.
Ovechkin is currently 39 and still playing at an elite level.
Another reason his chase is nothing short of historic.
🧐 FAQs: People Also Ask
Q: How many goals does Ovechkin need to pass Gretzky?
A: As of 2025, Ovechkin needs 41 goals to break Gretzky’s record of 894.
Q: Can Ovechkin really beat Gretzky’s record?
A: Yes. If he stays healthy and plays 1–2 more seasons, it’s very likely.
Q: Is Gretzky still considered the greatest?
A: For all-around stats, yes. But Ovechkin may become the greatest pure goal scorer.
Q: How many seasons has Ovechkin played?
A: He’s in his 20th NHL season, just like Gretzky when he retired.
