Washington Capitals forward Alexander Ovechkin reached a notable milestone in the 2022/23 NHL regular season, becoming the fifth Russian skater to surpass 70 points. His ongoing contribution across games helped underline his role as a persistent offensive threat for Washington. In the Chicago contest, Ovechkin added an assist and, cumulatively, he stood at 70 points for the current season (40 goals and 30 assists), a mark that places him among the league’s most productive players this year.
Joining him in the 70-point club were fellow Russian snipers Nikita Kucherov, Kirill Kaprizov, Artemi Panarin, and Evgeni Malkin, each having already reached the same milestone during the campaign. The company they keep reflects the depth of talent Russia has supplied to the NHL and the sustained impact these players have had on their teams throughout the 2022/23 season.
During the night of March 22, Moscow time, the Capitals faced the Columbus Blue Jackets in a high-scoring affair that ended 6-7 in favor of Columbus. Before puck drop, the NHL and Washington marked Ovechkin’s ongoing greatness, a ceremony recognizing his 802nd career goal on December 23, 2022, which propelled him past Gordie Howe (801) to become the second-best goalscorer in NHL history. The moment stood as a clear testament to Ovechkin’s longevity and his undeniable impact on the game, celebrated by fans and former players alike.
Later that same night against Columbus, Ovechkin added to his impressive tally with his 820th regular-season goal, a milestone that underscored the durability and scoring prowess that have defined his career. As the season progressed, his total of 74 goals maintained a position in the upper echelon of the NHL scoring race, a remarkable achievement that continues to fuel discussions about the all-time greats. This stretch further cemented Ovechkin’s status as the franchise’s go-to offensive leader and a perennial threat on the ice, capable of shifting momentum in favor of his team with a single shift.
Historically, Ovechkin’s pursuit of career goals has often been highlighted as one of the sport’s defining narratives, highlighting a player who blends sheer power, precise shooting, and an unyielding work ethic. The record of 74 goals in the season’s arc remains a significant benchmark, placing him in the same breath as the legends who shaped the game. The conversation around his achievements continues to resonate with fans who witnessed his climb through the ranks and appreciate the durability required to maintain such production year after year, game after game.