Ovechkin Becomes Second Player to Reach 1,000 Career Goals (Regular Season and Playoffs)

Alexander Ovechkin has achieved historic milestones by becoming only the second player in NHL history to reach 1,000 career goals in regular season and playoffs combined.

“WASHINGTON --Alex Ovechkinscored his 1,000th career NHL goal combining the regular season and playoffs, but the league-leadingColorado Avalanchebeat theWashington Capitals3-2 in overtime on Sunday”

ESPN

His 1,000th goal came on March 22, 2026, during a Washington Capitals game against the Colorado Avalanche.

ESPN

The 40-year-old Russian superstar scored his 26th goal of the season on a power play in the 15th minute of the third period.

This achievement cements his legacy as one of hockey's greatest goal scorers.

Ovechkin places alongside Wayne Gretzky as the only two players in the NHL's 100+ year history to reach this milestone.

Gretzky holds the record with 1,016 total goals.

Ovechkin's career statistics show extraordinary longevity and consistency.

He has 923 goals in 1,562 regular season games and 77 goals in 161 playoff games.

National Today

This totals 1,000 goals across 1,723 total NHL contests.

His offensive extends beyond goals with 753 regular season assists and 70 playoff assists.

He has accumulated 1,675 total NHL points.

His scoring ability was evident from the start with an impressive rookie season.

He has maintained excellence over two decades, showing exceptional talent and dedication.

Ovechkin's journey began when Washington Capitals selected him first overall in 2004 NHL Entry Draft.

“There are plenty of milestones in hockey that are significant -- NHL debut, first goal, first hat trick -- and then there are those that feel almost impossible”

Sports Illustrated

His career has spanned 21 seasons, solidifying his status as a franchise cornerstone.

He built his game around power, precision, and one of hockey's most recognizable shots.

His iconic 'office' on ice has become a feared destination for opposing goaltenders.

He has demonstrated remarkable adaptability as NHL systems evolved.

Defensive strategies have tried to contain him, but he always finds ways to score.

His scoring has become both inevitable and legendary in the sport.

Ovechkin's achievement has been recognized throughout the hockey world.

NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman praised his skill and longevity.

TSN

Bettman stated that reaching 1,000 goals in this era is 'simply remarkable.'

The Capitals currently sit 16th in the league with little playoff chance.

Ovechkin continues to break records individually despite team struggles.

His sustained excellence has made him one of the most dominant players of his era.

With Gretzky's record of 1,016 goals in sight, his pursuit of immortality continues.