Maxim Osipov, a defender for Avtomobilist in the Kontinental Hockey League (KHL), weighs in on whether Russian forward and Washington Capitals captain Alexander Ovechkin can surpass Wayne Gretzky’s all-time NHL goal record. His reflections offer a clear window into the expectations of fans and players alike across North America and Russia.
“I follow the discussions, and I read what people are saying. Of course, good luck to him. We’re all rooting for him to reach the milestone. It would be a tremendous moment for Russian hockey players,” Osipov commented. “If he can find 56 goals while his contract runs through 2026, that would be a remarkable achievement. It will be tough for a player to rise to that challenge, but I truly believe he has what it takes.”
Ovechkin, now 38, has appeared in 55 games this season, tallying 16 goals and 27 assists. He remains in the pursuit of Gretzky’s legendary 894 NHL goals, with a current total of 838 goals and a 56-goal gap to close. The chase continues to captivate fans in Canada, the United States, and around the globe, underscoring Ovechkin’s enduring impact on the game.
In a milestone moment, Ovechkin reached 1,400 career goals in a game against the Florida Panthers on February 25. He joined an exclusive group of 41 players in NHL history to surpass that landmark, solidifying his place among the league’s all-time greats.
Looking ahead, Washington is set to face the Philadelphia Flyers in the upcoming regular-season matchup. The game is scheduled for March 2, with puck drop slated for 3:00 p.m. local time. A victory would not only bolster Washington’s standing but also keep Ovechkin firmly in the conversation about reaching Gretzky’s record in the contemporary era.
Meanwhile, some perspectives from former Capitals goaltenders add color to the broader narrative around Ovechkin’s longevity and health. These viewpoints contribute to the ongoing dialogue about the physical demands of a long NHL career and how elite players manage peak performance across multiple seasons.