McDavid weighs Gretzky and Ovechkin in the all-time debate
In a candid moment, Edmonton Oilers captain Connor McDavid weighed a long-standing question about hockey immortals. He was asked who stands out as the greater scorer between Wayne Gretzky, the game’s legendary record-setter, and Alexander Ovechkin, the current sniper chasing the crown. McDavid emphasized the challenge of comparing eras while recognizing each player’s unique brilliance.
He described Gretzky as exceptionally creative and adept with the puck, noting the numerous ways Gretzky found the back of the net. With Gretzky’s career statistics, any attempt to match them would face steep odds. Yet McDavid also pointed out that Gretzky and Ovechkin belonged to different eras, where styles of play and the degree of offensive opportunity shifted over time.
Recent seasons have seen more offense across the league, but McDavid argued that producing continuous high-end scoring is still an extraordinary feat. Ovechkin remains a living reminder of the threat a pure goal-scorer can pose, routinely hitting the 50 to 60 goal marks despite changes in the game. The comparison, he suggested, should honor both players for what they achieved in their own times.
As numbers stand, Ovechkin has skated in 27 games this season, tallying 13 goals and 12 assists. The Russian winger continues to chase history while leaving a lasting imprint on every matchup he skates. At the same time, Gretzky’s name looms large in the record books, where the Great One sits atop the all-time list with 894 goals. Ovechkin, now 37, has amassed 793 goals in his career, moving closer to that historic milestone but still eight behind Gordie Howe for second place. The dialogue around who belongs in the all-time top tier remains vivid, with every new goal adding a chapter to the conversation.
Observers from North America capture a broad spectrum of opinions on what makes a great goal scorer. Some credit the era of high-paced offense and synthetic progressions that shaped today’s game. Others focus on the pure shooting instincts and relentless drive that defined Gretzky and continue to drive Ovechkin. In this ongoing debate, McDavid’s perspective anchors a present-day view: greatness manifests in different forms, and the sport is richer when legends from different generations are celebrated side by side. American and Canadian fans alike appreciate how each era created its own kind of excellence, and how unity in admiration helps fans remember why the sport captivates so many—across borders and across time. These reflections are echoed by analysts who admire the craft and the consistency required to sustain elite scoring over extended periods.
Former players and hockey voices have also weighed in on the comparative landscape. Pavel Buchnevich, who spent his career with the St. Louis Blues, has offered insights into how Russian players adapt to different league cultures and styles, underscoring that talent transcends national boundaries. His observations highlight the global nature of hockey while reinforcing the idea that success hinges on a blend of skill, timing, and teammates who can capitalize on one another’s strengths. The ongoing dialog among players and fans continues to deepen appreciation for the sport and its most prolific scorers, no matter where they come from or when they played.
In sum, McDavid’s answer reframes the debate. Gretzky and Ovechkin are not merely numbers on a page; they are milestones in a living sport. Each has left an indelible mark on the ice, influencing the way future generations approach scoring, preparation, and ambition. The dialogue invites fans to celebrate a shared history while looking ahead to the next generation of stars who will push the boundaries of what is possible in the game of hockey. The legacy of these greats endures in every goal, every assist, and every moment that reminds fans why the NHL remains a stage for extraordinary talent. At its core, the discussion is less about ranking and more about honoring the contributions that shaped the sport’s most thrilling chapters, across North America and beyond as the game continues to evolve.