Nov 9, 2024; St. Louis, Missouri, USA; Washington Capitals left wing Alex Ovechkin (8) skates against the St. Louis Blues during the third period at Enterprise Center. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Curry-Imagn Images

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Top 5 players with most goals in NHL history

Discover the top 5 NHL goal scorers of all time and find out who leads the pack with the most goals in hockey history.

Hockey’s history is rich with players who redefined the game, but only a select few have etched their names at the top of the NHL’s all-time goal-scoring list. These athletes didn’t just score goals—they created moments of magic that resonated with fans around the globe.

As we take a closer look at the players who have mastered the art of finding the back of the net, one thing is clear—these athletes have not only dominated the ice but have also redefined what it means to be a goal scorer in the NHL. But who stands at the very top? Let’s dive into the careers of these elite scorers, each of whom has made a lasting impact on the game.

1. Wayne Gretzky: 1,016 Goals

Wayne Gretzky, holds the top spot with an incredible 1,016 goals in his career. This includes his time in the NHL and WHA. Known for his unmatched vision on the ice and ability to score in nearly every way imaginable, Gretzky’s record seems almost untouchable. He revolutionized the game and set the bar so high that it still stands tall, even decades later.

wayne gretzky scoring a goal against the top goalie in the league (1985, colorized) pic.twitter.com/TSBmDHOYki
— noah (@capsboybebop) December 29, 2024

2. Alex Ovechkin: 942 Goals

Alex Ovechkin, one of the greatest goal scorers in NHL history, has tallied an incredible 942 career goals, combining regular season and playoffs. Known for his powerful shot and relentless scoring ability, continues to chase history as he edges closer to Wayne Gretzky’s legendary records.

THE CLIMB CONTINUES FOR ALEX OVECHKIN 🔥

Ovi is now 25 goals away from breaking Wayne Gretzky’s all-time record pic.twitter.com/w6oaFNRPBe
— B/R Open Ice (@BR_OpenIce) December 29, 2024

3. Gordie Howe: 869 Goals

Gordie Howe amassed an impressive 869 career goals, including regular season and playoffs. A true icon of the sport, his longevity, versatility, and unparalleled skill defined an era and set the standard for generations of players to follow.

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4. Brett Hull: 844 Goals

Brett Hull, a sharpshooting legend, racked up an incredible 844 career goals across the NHL regular season and playoffs. Known for his lethal one-timer and precision, Hull remains one of the most prolific goal scorers in hockey history.

5. Jaromir Jagr: 844 Goals

Jaromir Jagr, one of hockey’s all-time greats, netted an astounding 844 career goals across the NHL and international play. Known for his longevity, skill, and dominance, Jagr’s legendary career continues to inspire hockey fans worldwide.

Image Credit: Jeff Curry-Imagn Images

Alex Ovechkin

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Wayne Gretzky

Anamika Shrivastava

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