At the 2025 ESPYs held in Los Angeles, California, two hockey stars received major recognition: Leon Draisaitl of the Edmonton Oilers was honored as the best NHL player, while Alexander Ovechkin of the Washington Capitals was awarded for the best record-breaking performance. These accolades highlighted outstanding achievements in the National Hockey League during the 2024-25 season.
Alexander Ovechkin Breaks NHL Career Goal Record
Alexander Ovechkin set a new NHL record for the most regular season goals scored in a career by reaching 897 goals, surpassing Wayne Gretzky’s previous mark of 894. Ovechkin achieved this feat on April 6, 2025, during a game against the New York Islanders at the UBS Arena in Elmont, New York, scoring a power-play goal at 7:26 of the second period. Despite the Capitals losing 4-1, Ovechkin’s achievement marked a historic milestone as all of his goals came exclusively with the Washington Capitals from 2005 through 2025.
Wayne Gretzky’s career goals were spread across four teams: the Edmonton Oilers, Los Angeles Kings, St. Louis Blues, and New York Rangers between 1979 and 1999. Beyond goals, Gretzky remains the all-time leader in several NHL categories, including assists, points, and postseason statistics. Meanwhile, Ovechkin holds records for the most regular season power-play goals, game-winning goals, and shots on goal.
Leon Draisaitl’s Outstanding Performance in the 2024-25 Season
Leon Draisaitl led the NHL this season by scoring 52 goals along with 54 assists, totaling 106 points over 71 games. He also recorded 11 game-winning goals, a plus/minus rating of +32, 33 power-play points, and won 650 faceoffs. Defensively, he contributed with 27 blocked shots and 35 takeaways, showcasing his all-around impact on the ice.
During the playoffs, Draisaitl continued to excel, leading all players with 33 points and four game-winning goals—all achieved in overtime. Over 22 postseason games, he tallied 11 goals and 22 assists while maintaining a +4 rating. His strong postseason performance included 12 power-play points, 56 shots on goal, and significant faceoff wins, highlighting his vital role in Edmonton’s playoff push.
Significance of the Awards and Future Outlook
Draisaitl’s recognition as the best NHL player at the ESPYs marks a historic moment as he becomes the first German-born player to receive this honor and the second Oilers player after Connor McDavid, who won the award three consecutive years from 2022 to 2024. His recent contract extension signals Edmonton’s confidence in him as a franchise cornerstone for potentially the next eight seasons.
Ovechkin’s record-breaking milestone not only cements his legacy as one of hockey’s greatest goal scorers but also elevates the excitement around the Capitals and the NHL’s ongoing storied history.
“This is a historic moment for hockey, and I’m proud to contribute to the legacy of this great game.” —Alexander Ovechkin, Washington Capitals left winger
“Being named the best NHL player is a tremendous honor, and it motivates me to keep pushing for excellence.” —Leon Draisaitl, Edmonton Oilers center
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Why isn’t Leon Draisaitl in 4 nations?
A. Leon Draisaitl won’t be participating either. Germany, ranked 8th, lacks enough NHL players to form a complete team.