player tips

Youth hockey players have a great opportunity to learn this season from the NHL greats. Alex Ovechkin enters the 2021-22 season with 730 goals. Wayne Gretzky scored 894 goals, leaving the Washington Capitals superstar 165 away from surpassing The Great One as the games greatest goal scorer. 

It’s worth noting (or reminding) that Gretzky also had 1,963 assists totalling 2,857 total points. Those numbers were long believed to be carved into the record book in stone, and untouchable!

While the NHL superstar is beyond the peak of his career, and would need to score at a record pace for an older player, there are plenty not only cheering for him, but firmly believing he can accomplish the once unimaginable.

What can youth hockey players learn from this pursuit of greatness?   

Listen to how the superstar is approaching it all: 
“Let’s don’t look too far,” Ovechkin said. “Game by game, step by step.”
This is something all great coaches tell great players and great teams!

Listen to his teammates:
“I absolutely think it’s realistic,” said Nicklas Backstrom. “If anyone can do it, it’s him. That’s the kind of hunger he’s got, and that’s the kind of goal-scorer he is.”
Great players have confidence and those around them develop that confidence. Great players always remain hungry. 

Listen to The Great One:
“He’s definitely got a legitimate shot,” Gretzky said. “I’m one of his biggest fans, and it’s only good for the game if he can break the record. He just has to be relaxed, and it’s going to take two, three, four years but eventually he’s probably going to break the record.”
How many youth, prep, college or professional players would be a cheerleader for someone chasing their record? Respect in the highest regard and something all players should emulate! 

Humility:
“I’m going to try (my) best,” said Ovechkin. “That’s why I want to play five more years. To have a chance to catch the ‘Great One,’ why not?” “If I’m going to be second, it’s a pretty good number, as well.”

For the record, Ovechkin needs 72 goals for second place.

NHL All-Time Goal Scoring Records

Wayne Gretzky – 894
Gordie Howe – 801
Jaromir Jagr – 766
Brett Hull – 741
Marcel Dionne – 731
Alex Ovechkin – 730
For a full list, click here.

Thanks for reading and we hope you enjoy the NHL season. There is a lot to be learned from the game’s greatest! Good luck with the start of your youth hockey season. For more articles, check out our Player Tips!