Alex Ovechkin becomes 2nd NHL player with 1,000 career goals

Washington Capitals star reaches historic milestone

Mar. 23, 2026 at 1:25am

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Washington Capitals superstar Alex Ovechkin became just the second player in NHL history with 1,000 career goals, including regular season and playoffs, with a power-play goal on Sunday to join Wayne Gretzky. Ovechkin, 40, eclipsed Gretzky for the most regular-season goals in league history on April 6, 2025, with goal No. 895.

Why it matters

Ovechkin's achievement cements his legacy as one of the greatest hockey players of all time, joining the legendary Wayne Gretzky as the only players to reach the 1,000-goal milestone in the NHL. This historic moment is a testament to Ovechkin's longevity, skill, and dominance in the sport.

The details

On Sunday, Ovechkin reached the milestone mark in the third period against the visiting Colorado Avalanche, ripping a slap shot past goaltender Mackenzie Blackwood to tie the game at 2 with 5:43 left in regulation. Colorado rebounded to win 3-2 in overtime. For his career, Ovechkin has 1,676 points (923 goals, 753 assists) in 1,562 regular-season games. In the postseason, he has 147 points (77 goals, 70 assists) in 161 games.

  • Ovechkin eclipsed Gretzky for the most regular-season goals in league history on April 6, 2025, with goal No. 895.
  • Ovechkin reached the 1,000-goal milestone on Sunday, March 23, 2026.

The players

Alex Ovechkin

A 40-year-old Russian hockey player who has spent his entire 21-year NHL career with the Washington Capitals. He is a three-time Hart Memorial Trophy winner as league MVP, a 12-time All-Star, and a Stanley Cup champion.

Wayne Gretzky

A legendary Canadian hockey player who is widely considered the greatest player in NHL history. He is the only other player to reach the 1,000-goal milestone in the NHL.

Mackenzie Blackwood

The goaltender for the Colorado Avalanche who was unable to stop Ovechkin's historic goal.

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What’s next

Ovechkin will likely continue playing for the Capitals as he chases down additional NHL records and milestones. His next goal will be to lead the Capitals to another Stanley Cup championship before he retires.

The takeaway

Alex Ovechkin's historic 1,000th career goal is a testament to his unparalleled skill, longevity, and dominance in the NHL. His achievement cements his status as one of the greatest hockey players of all time, joining the legendary Wayne Gretzky as the only players to reach this remarkable milestone.