Ovechkin on the Hunt for Gretzky’s Goal-Scoring Record

Photo Courtesy: NHL.com, in story titled “Ovechkin chase for Gretzky's NHL goal-scoring record feeling real” by Tom Gulitti

There is no doubt that Alexander Ovechkin will go down as one of the greatest NHL players in history, but where will he land in the goal-scoring record books when he finally retires? Will he eventually be No. 1?

It’s hard to say, but that top spot is more or less on the horizon. Ovechkin officially moved to No. 3 in goals scored with his 767th goal against the New York Islanders on Tuesday, leaving only Gordie Howe and Wayne Gretzky in front of him.

Howe is 34 goals ahead of the Russian native, while Gretzky is 127 goals ahead. To me, this honestly seems like a piece of cake for the 36-year-old who has shown no signs of slowing down, even after 17 seasons in the league. He is definitely getting on the older side of professional hockey but again, he’s truly one of the greats. I have no doubts in my mind that he could play for another 10 years, and maybe even secure that No. 1 spot.

Based on my basic math skills, Ovechkin has scored, on average, 45 goals a season, so if he is in the league for another 10 years and keeps up his pace, we will for sure see him at the top.

But does that make him the GOAT over Gretzky? Will this create a Michael Jordan / Lebron James: NHL edition? We will have to wait and see.