The Next Ovechkin? 9 NHL Players Who Could Break His Record

Mei Lin

7 min read

Post on May 09, 2025

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Connor McDavid – The All-Around Threat

Connor McDavid's exceptional playmaking abilities are undeniable, making him a perennial Art Ross Trophy contender. However, his goal-scoring is rapidly evolving into a truly elite threat. His recent seasons have shown a marked increase in shooting accuracy and a willingness to shoot more often, transforming him into a complete offensive force.

• Highest points totals in recent seasons: McDavid consistently leads the league in scoring, showcasing his exceptional offensive talent. This high point production often translates into a significant number of goals.
• Improved shooting accuracy in recent years: While always a skilled playmaker, McDavid has honed his shooting accuracy, leading to a higher goal-scoring rate.
• Excellent supporting cast in Edmonton: The Oilers' roster boasts talented players like Leon Draisaitl, creating more scoring opportunities for McDavid.
• Potential for sustained high-level performance: McDavid’s age and dedication suggest he can maintain this high level of play for years to come, crucial for chasing a goal-scoring record.

McDavid's consistency and potential for increased goal scoring, potentially exceeding his assists, make him a top candidate to challenge Ovechkin's record.

Leon Draisaitl – Ovechkin's Potential Successor in Edmonton?

Leon Draisaitl, McDavid's linemate, possesses a powerful shot and the size to be a dominant net-front presence, reminiscent of Ovechkin's style. His goal-scoring prowess is undeniable, and playing alongside McDavid maximizes his scoring chances.

• High goal totals and consistent point production: Draisaitl consistently puts up impressive goal and point totals, cementing his status as an elite NHL scorer.
• Plays alongside McDavid, maximizing scoring opportunities: The synergy between McDavid and Draisaitl creates a potent offensive duo, providing Draisaitl with numerous scoring chances.
• Similar offensive style to Ovechkin, showcasing power and accuracy: Draisaitl’s powerful shot and ability to score from various positions mirror Ovechkin’s offensive style.
• Need for continued high-level performance and injury avoidance: Maintaining his current level of play and avoiding significant injuries are crucial for Draisaitl’s chances of breaking the record.

Auston Matthews – The Modern Sniper

Auston Matthews is known for his lethal wrist shot and quick release. He’s already established himself as one of the league's premier goal scorers, having achieved multiple 50-goal seasons.

• Multiple 50-goal seasons already under his belt: Matthews has already demonstrated the capacity for extraordinary goal-scoring seasons, placing him firmly in contention.
• Exceptional accuracy and quick release: His shooting mechanics are among the best in the NHL, allowing him to consistently find the back of the net.
• Strong team support in Toronto: The Maple Leafs offer Matthews strong support, providing ample scoring opportunities.
• Potential for continued growth and improvement: Matthews is still relatively young and has the potential to further improve his already exceptional skillset.

Kirill Kaprizov – The Emerging Star

Kirill Kaprizov’s dynamic skillset and explosive offensive talent have made him a star in a short time. While playing on a developing Minnesota Wild team, his goal scoring speaks volumes about his ability.

• Rapid ascension to NHL elite status: Kaprizov's quick rise to NHL stardom highlights his exceptional talent and potential for future success.
• High offensive production despite playing on a developing team: His impressive numbers, even on a team still finding its footing, suggest even greater production on a truly elite team.
• Exciting combination of speed, skill, and a powerful shot: Kaprizov's complete offensive game makes him a dangerous player to defend.
• Continued development needed to compete for a top goal scoring record: Kaprizov’s continued growth and sustained high-level performance are vital to his chances of challenging the record.

Jack Hughes – The Dynamic Playmaker with Scoring Potential

Jack Hughes' electrifying speed and playmaking abilities are setting him on a path to increased goal scoring. With his improving shot and more experience, Hughes poses a threat.

• Growing goal-scoring numbers year-over-year: Hughes is progressively increasing his goal totals, signaling a trajectory toward elite goal scoring.
• Exceptional puck-handling skills: Hughes' puck skills create space and scoring opportunities, vital for a goal scorer.
• Strong team support in New Jersey: The Devils' roster is improving, offering more support for Hughes' offensive game.
• Needs to improve consistency and increase his shot attempts: Consistent high-level performance and an increased willingness to shoot will be key for Hughes.

Jason Robertson – The Consistent Goal Scorer

Jason Robertson showcases consistent high-level offensive production, placing him among the NHL's top goal scorers. His reliability is a significant asset.

• Demonstrates reliable high goal totals: Robertson has shown the ability to consistently score a significant number of goals.
• Excellent net-front presence: His skill around the net makes him an effective finisher.
• Strong supporting cast in Dallas: Playing with other skilled players in Dallas enhances his scoring opportunities.
• Needs to maintain this high level of production and remain injury free: Sustained performance and injury avoidance are crucial for challenging Ovechkin’s record.

Brayden Point – The Lightning's Lethal Weapon

Brayden Point’s speed and offensive instincts are a significant asset to the Tampa Bay Lightning. His ability to create scoring chances and finish them off effectively makes him a strong contender, if he can stay healthy.

• Consistent scoring with Tampa Bay: Point has consistently contributed offensively to the Lightning’s success.
• Exceptional speed and hockey IQ: His speed and hockey sense allow him to anticipate plays and create scoring chances.
• Part of a high-powered offensive team: Playing on a potent offensive team significantly increases his scoring opportunities.
• Injury history could impact his chances: Point's injury history is a factor that could hinder his pursuit of the record.

Mika Zibanejad – The Powerful Shooter

Mika Zibanejad's powerful shot gives him the potential for high goal totals, however, consistency is key.

• High scoring potential, but needs more consistent output: While capable of high scoring, more consistent performance is needed to compete for the top spot.
• Excellent shot placement and power: His powerful and accurate shot is a significant asset.
• Need for continued strong seasons and consistent goal production to challenge Ovechkin's record: Sustained high-level performance is paramount.

Patrick Kane – The Veteran Sniper

Patrick Kane's exceptional skill and proven goal-scoring ability, despite his age, should not be underestimated. He remains a dangerous offensive player.

• Proven goal-scoring ability throughout his career: Kane has a long history of scoring goals at a high level.
• Exceptional puck-handling and creativity: His skill allows him to create scoring chances from seemingly impossible situations.
• Age may be a factor in achieving a goal-scoring record of this magnitude: His age presents a challenge in the long-term pursuit of this record.
• Will need consistent seasons to keep in contention: Maintaining his current level of play for several more seasons will be crucial.

Conclusion:

While Alex Ovechkin's goal-scoring record remains a monumental achievement, the NHL’s next generation of superstars are emerging, presenting a real chance of breaking the record. Players like McDavid, Matthews, and Draisaitl are clear front-runners, but other young talents like Kaprizov and Robertson represent potent long-term threats. The race to become the "next Ovechkin" is far from over, and the coming years promise thrilling battles for the top spot on the all-time goal-scoring list. Keep your eye on these nine players; they may be the ones to challenge and ultimately surpass the legendary Ovechkin's record. Who do you think will be the next Ovechkin? Let us know in the comments below!