Alex Ovechkin breaking the all-time goals record once seemed impossible—even to the Russian superstar himself. But after scoring his 895th career goal and surpassing Wayne Gretzky for the No. 1 spot, an old interview with Ovechkin from 2016 resurfaced on social media, and it perfectly captures the magnitude of his achievement.
Very few believed it could happen, but in early April 2025, Ovechkin cemented his place in NHL history. Already one of the most legendary players of the modern era, he scored goal No. 895 in a game against the New York Islanders, officially becoming the NHL’s all-time leading goal scorer.
Wayne Gretzky—holder of nearly 60 NHL records—was in attendance and quickly walked to center ice to show his appreciation and respect for the new record-holder. For decades, Gretzky’s 894 goals felt untouchable. Even Ovechkin himself didn’t believe it was possible.
Alex Ovechkin’s awesome words on the record
After he broke the record, a 2016 interview with Elliotte Friedman began circulating online. In the clip, Friedman asked Ovechkin if he thought he could catch Gretzky.
“No. I don’t think somebody will beat this record,” Ovechkin said seriously.
Friedman pushed back, noting that Ovechkin had a real chance.
“In this league, I think it’s impossible,” Ovechkin replied. “Impossible.”
“I’d have to have six seasons of 50 goals,” he added with a smile. “I don’t know if I’m going to be able to skate in six seasons.”
At the time, Ovechkin was still roughly 350 goals away. But since then, he’s averaged around 42 goals per season over eight NHL campaigns between making that statement and officially breaking the record, per NHL.com. Absolutely incredible from one of the greatest to ever do it!
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