Alex Ovechkin is still chasing one of the biggest records in hockey history. The Washington Capitals captain has scored 929 career goals and needs 71 more goals to become the first NHL player to reach 1,000 goals.

Many people thought this record was impossible when Alex Ovechkin started his career. But the veteran forward has continued to surprise fans and critics. He has passed many hockey legends on the all-time scoring list and is now known as one of the greatest goal scorers ever.

NHL shared Ovechkin’s thoughts on its X account. Even at 40 years old, Ovechkin still wants to keep playing. He recently said that he has not decided on his future yet.

“I was talking to my family and (my wife’s) like, ‘Okay, let’s play one more year, or maybe two years, I don’t know.”

However, scoring 71 more goals will not be easy. Ovechkin does not score as often as he did during his best years, and he will need to stay healthy and consistent in the coming seasons.

Still, his career numbers show why it is possible. As per the NHL Stats, he has scored 1,687 regular-season points, along with 147 points and 77 playoff goals in 161 playoff games.

In the same post shared by the NHL on X, there was a question regarding whether he would reach the milestone of 1000 goals or not.

As fans continue to discuss his chances, many are sharing their opinions on whether Alex Ovechkin can achieve one of the greatest milestones in NHL history.

Fans Share Their Thoughts on Ovechkin’s 1,000-Goal Chase

Many people had different and debatable opinions, but some believed that he might not be able to reach this milestone.

One fan feels Ovechkin is now at a point where he should think about retirement. Even though he is still scoring goals, his overall impact is not the same as it was in his best years.

That fan wrote, “Nah he’s beyond washed he shoulda retired last season.”

Another fan questioned Ovechkin’s style of play and said his goal-scoring success depends a lot on his teammates creating chances. 

One of the fans wrote, “Anything is possible when you stand in one spot and let your teammates do all the work.”

However, Ovechkin’s famous one-timer from the power-play circle has remained one of the hardest shots for NHL defenses to stop for almost 20 years.

One fan supporting Ovechkin’s chase believes time is the biggest challenge. With only a few seasons left, Ovechkin will need to keep scoring at a high level to reach the 71-goal mark.

“I'd put $1000 on NO if he only plays 2 seasons more”, the fan commented. 

Some fans believe Ovechkin can reach 1,000 goals if he gives himself more time. A two-season timeline would still require strong scoring, but it looks much more possible than doing it in one season.

Another fan wrote, “In two more seasons, sure. One season? Nah.”

Many fans agree that reaching the milestone in a single season is unlikely. Ovechkin would need an incredible 71-goal season, which would be very difficult at this point in his career.

“No way he gets there this year”, a fan commented. 

Ovechkin’s chase for 1,000 goals has started a big debate among hockey fans. Some believe age has slowed him down, while others still believe he can surprise everyone and reach the historic mark.

If Ovechkin plays for another one or two seasons, can he prove the doubters wrong again and reach the legendary 1,000-goal milestone? Let us know in the comments.

Read more at the NHL Fan Central.

Written by

Kapil Manghnani

Edited by

Kaamna Dwivedi