Full Breakdown
Alex Ovechkin Joins the 900-Goal Club in NHL History
11/6/2025, 4:40:39 AM
Historic Milestone Achieved
On November 5, 2025, Alex Ovechkin of the Washington Capitals made history by becoming the first player in NHL history to score 900 career regular-season goals. The milestone was achieved during a home game against the St. Louis Blues at Capital One Arena, with Ovechkin netting the goal just 2:39 into the second period. He backhanded a rebound from teammate Jakob Chychrun past Blues goaltender Jordan Binnington, who was unable to make the save. Following the goal, Ovechkin was celebrated by his teammates as they cleared the bench to congratulate him.
Background and Context
Ovechkin, who is in his 21st NHL season, entered the game needing three goals to reach the 900 mark after surpassing Wayne Gretzky's all-time goal record with his 895th goal on April 6, 2025. He had scored goals No. 898 and 899 in previous games against the Minnesota Wild and Columbus Blue Jackets, respectively. Ovechkin's scoring has been consistent throughout his career, with notable achievements including being the only player to record 18 seasons with 40 or more goals.
Key Figures and Reactions
Ovechkin's accomplishment has drawn praise from teammates and analysts alike. Longtime teammate T.J. Oshie remarked on Ovechkin's ability to defy expectations, stating, "Anyone that says, 'Can Ovi do this?' I'm like, 'Yeah, probably.'" Ovechkin's career has been marked by numerous accolades, including three Hart Trophies and leading the league in goals nine times.
Career Goals Breakdown
Ovechkin's 900 goals include:
- 569 at even strength (second overall)
- 326 on the power play (a record)
- 5 short-handed goals
- 65 empty-net goals (a record)
- 137 game-winners (a record)
- 27 overtime goals (a record)
- 179 multi-goal games (second overall)
Official Statements & Responses
In a statement reflecting on his achievement, Ovechkin emphasized the significance of reaching 900 goals, noting, "I think 1,500 games is important, but 900 goals no one has scored." The Capitals organization plans to honor Ovechkin for this milestone during a home game against the Winnipeg Jets on November 26.
What's Next for Ovechkin?
As Ovechkin continues his pursuit of further milestones, he is also in the final year of his contract. Speculation surrounds his future in the league, particularly regarding the possibility of reaching the 1,000-goal mark. Currently, he has 977 combined regular-season and playoff goals, trailing Gretzky's record of 1,016. Teammates and fans alike are eager to see if Ovechkin can maintain his scoring pace as he approaches this next significant milestone.
Verbatim Quotes
- “It's insane to think about four, five, six years ago,” — T.J. Oshie, Teammate
- “As soon as you think you haven't scored or you scored two goals in 12 games, you just put pressure on yourself,” — Alex Ovechkin
Ovechkin's journey to 900 goals not only solidifies his legacy as one of the greatest goal scorers in NHL history but also sets the stage for potential future achievements as he continues to compete at a high level.
