Wherever you turn, the name Alex Ovechkin resonates among hockey enthusiasts. What is the reason for that? This month, he shattered Wayne Gretzky’s all-time NHL goal record, pushing the new benchmark to an impressive 897 career goals. (This will keep increasing as Ovi continues his NHL career.) Nonetheless, discussions are already underway regarding who might be the next to shatter this record. Is it really that straightforward? Perhaps you could consult someone like Ovechkin. Who are the individuals capturing the attention of the community?

Fans believe that players like David Pastrnak, Leon Draisaitl, and Auston Matthews have the potential to reach that elite level. When questioned about the pursuit, the captain of the Toronto Maple Leafs firmly dismissed the idea, asserting, “And, you know, I don’t even think I should be in that conversation. I mean, this guy just broke the record. I’m so far away from that, and I don’t think that should be a focus on myself. I mean, it should be on Ovi, and rightfully so. It should be on Ovi, and what he’s been able to accomplish in his career, and obviously this record being one of them.”

Upon examining the statistics, it is evident that Matthews has reached a milestone of 401 goals, having competed in 9 seasons with the Maple Leafs in his NHL career.

Although the objective may appear distant, Canadian TV personality Arda Ocal made a striking assertion during a discussion with Greg Wyshynski on NHL on ESPN’s YouTube channel, declaring, “Austin Matthews is going to break Ovechkin’s record if he stays healthy. There, I said it. I’m putting it out there. But I’m saying he will produce. No, but that’s why Ovechkin did it. That’s why Ovechkin did it. If Austin Matthews, you could argue, well, no, inarguable. He’s scoring at a faster rate at this point in his career than Alex Ovechkin is. If Austin Matthews stays healthy and continues on this path of goal-scoring acumen, which I believe he can, then he will break Ovechkin’s record. Clip this, and let’s play it in 15 years.”

Ocal appears to be an outspoken supporter of Auston Matthews! After hearing his words, his co-host Greg was left utterly speechless. And who could possibly disagree? This assertion carries significant weight! The TV personality clearly stated that Matthews could potentially pursue the record, provided he maintains his health and continues to score goals as he has been doing in the latter stages of his NHL career.

Arda recognized the different elements at play, such as age, yet he appears optimistic that the Maple Leafs captain could accomplish it—if not in the next few years, then certainly as he approaches the twilight of his career, likely after more than ten years. But are you aware that fans speculate Boston Bruins forward David Pastrnak could potentially join Ovi in that elite group?

Not Auston Matthews, but Pasta for Alex Ovechkin’s record

David Pastrnak, affectionately dubbed “Pasta,” has earned this moniker due to his well-known love for pasta, which he frequently enjoys, particularly in the lead-up to games. Nonetheless, he has garnered a strong following among supporters of the Boston Bruins, having dedicated 11 seasons to the franchise. And would you believe it?

When Alex Ovechkin shattered Wayne Gretzky’s record, he instantly emerged as a fan favorite in the pursuit of the legendary Russian hockey icon. As the 2024-25 regular season concludes, Pasta finds himself with 391 career goals, indicating that there may be a considerable journey ahead before he reaches that milestone. Pastrnak showcases his offensive prowess through a swift and precise shot, agile skating, and a strong presence on the power play.

These qualities have positioned him as one of the NHL’s most formidable shooters. His unwavering high-level performance highlights his position as a top goal scorer in the league. However, reaching Ovi will require considerable time, and ultimately, it hinges on the Bruins forward’s ability to maintain his health and sustain his goal-scoring prowess.