Alex Ovechkin Will Break Wayne Gretzky’s Goals Record Against One of These 5 Teams

For nearly four decades, Wayne Gretzky’s 894 career goals seemed like an untouchable record. But as Alex Ovechkin continues his relentless pursuit of hockey immortality, the question is no longer if he will surpass “The Great One,” but when—and against whom.

Ovechkin, already second on the all-time goals list, remains on pace to rewrite history within the next couple of seasons. While predicting the exact game in which he’ll score No. 895 is impossible, certain teams stand out as prime candidates to be on the wrong end of history. Here are five teams most likely to witness Ovechkin’s record-breaking goal.

1. Pittsburgh Penguins

The Capitals-Penguins rivalry has defined Ovechkin’s career as much as his pursuit of Gretzky. What better way to cement his legacy than by breaking the record against Sidney Crosby’s Penguins? Ovechkin has scored nearly 50 goals against Pittsburgh in his career, making them one of his favorite opponents. A record-breaking goal in a heated rivalry game would add another unforgettable chapter to this historic matchup.

2. New York Islanders

Ovechkin has feasted on the Islanders throughout his career, netting over 40 goals against them. With New York being a frequent divisional opponent, the odds of him breaking the record against them are strong. A goal at UBS Arena or even at Capital One Arena against the Isles would bring history full circle, as Gretzky’s final career goal also came against this franchise.

3. Philadelphia Flyers

Another Metropolitan Division foe, the Flyers, have been on the receiving end of some of Ovechkin’s most iconic goals. His legendary falling-down goal in 2006 came against Philadelphia, and he has maintained a steady scoring pace against them ever since. A record-breaking goal against a bitter rival would be poetic for Capitals fans.

4. Toronto Maple Leafs

The Maple Leafs are always in the national spotlight, making them a perfect opponent for a historic moment. Ovechkin has over 40 career goals against Toronto, and breaking Gretzky’s record in Canada—where hockey history means everything—would be an incredible storyline. The media frenzy surrounding a record-breaking goal in Scotiabank Arena would make for an unforgettable night.

5. Montreal Canadiens

Much like Toronto, Montreal would be a fitting location for Ovechkin’s historic goal. The Canadiens have a deep-rooted history in hockey, and Ovechkin has always thrived in Bell Centre’s electric atmosphere. Scoring No. 895 in the hockey mecca of Montreal would be a legendary moment that echoes throughout NHL history.

Conclusion

Regardless of which team he scores it against, Ovechkin breaking Gretzky’s record will be one of the greatest moments in NHL history. His relentless scoring ability, longevity, and consistency have made him one of the game’s greatest players. Now, all eyes are on which unfortunate team will have to watch from the ice as Ovechkin officially becomes the NHL’s all-time leading goal scorer.