Washington Capitals superstar Alex Ovechkin made NHL history last season when he broke Wayne Gretzky’s once thought to be unbreakable all-time career goal record of 894.
After notching record-eclipsing goal No. 895, the 39-year-old wing potted two more goals to close the campaign, taking his career tally to 897.
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Washington Capitals left wing Alex Ovechkin (8) celebrates from the ice after defeating the Florida Panthers at Capital One Arena. Amber Searls-Imagn ImagesAmber Searls-Imagn Images
“The Great 8” could conceivably score goal no. 900 in the Capitals’ regular season opener. Washington will open the 2025-26 regular season at home against the Boston Bruins on Oct. 8.
Ovechkin will turn 40 before the regular season gets underway. Since scoring two goals in his Oct. 5, 2005, NHL debut, he’s often done things in style.
21 years later, could he score an opening night hat trick to reach 900? Anything is possible with Ovi. His career has been full of unforgettable and electrifying moments.
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Once he passes 900, it’s up for debate how many more Ovechkin will score before he retires from the NHL. This summer, there was some confusion over whether the upcoming season would be his last in the NHL.
“We are not in negotiations yet,” Ovechkin told RIA Novosti’s Andrey Senchenko regarding his future. “Would I like to stay at the club? A year will pass, and we will think about it. We will live and see.”
Washington Capitals left wing Alex Ovechkin takes a shot against the Carolina Hurricanes.James Guillory-Imagn Images
Last season, he showed no sign of slowing down. The 6-foot-3 wing tallied 44 goals in 65 regular season games.
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Ovechkin has been remarkably durable throughout his career, averaging 75 games played per season. The three-time Hart Trophy winner could have plenty of goals left in his accurate wrists.
Capitals fans will look forward to him setting up in his office at the top of the left face-off circle and firing precision-guided one-timers past helpless netminders.
Provided that he doesn’t suffer an early-season injury, No. 900 is coming soon. Stay tuned.
Related: We Don’t Know When Alex Ovechkin Will Retire, So Let’s Enjoy His Greatness Now
Related: Alex Ovechkin Makes Retirement Stance Clear Entering Contract Year
This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Sep 16, 2025, where it first appeared in the NHL section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.