Ranked: Who has scored the most goals in NHL history?

For generations, the discussion around the greatest goal scorers in NHL history revolved around legendary figures and seemingly insurmountable records. For over two decades, Wayne Gretzky's astonishing career goals mark stood as the ultimate pinnacle. However, in April 2025, a new king was crowned as Alex Ovechkin etched his name at the very top of the NHL's all-time goal-scoring list.

This historic achievement reshaped the record books and solidified Ovechkin's legacy as the most prolific pure goal scorer the game has ever seen. It's a testament to dedication, a signature powerful shot, and an unyielding will to find the back of the net.

Here's a look at the elite company of players who have scored the most career goals in NHL history, counting down from the tenth spot to the new number one:

Here are the players with the most career goals in NHL history:

10. Steve Yzerman: 692 goals

"Stevie Y" was the heart and soul of the Detroit Red Wings for decades. While he evolved into one of the most respected two-way centers and leaders in the game, his 692 goals showcase his elite offensive talent throughout his storied career. He was a consistent threat who knew how to find the back of the net.

9. Mark Messier: 694 goals

A true icon of leadership and a fierce competitor, Mark Messier's 694 goals are a testament to his incredible durability and his knack for scoring clutch goals. Often celebrated for his playmaking and unparalleled leadership, his goal tally solidifies his place as one of the game's most complete and impactful players.

8. Mike Gartner: 708 goals

Known for his blazing speed and consistent ability to put the puck past goaltenders, Mike Gartner reached the exclusive 700-goal club through sheer determination and a powerful shot. He was a reliable offensive weapon for every team he played for throughout his illustrious career.

7. Phil Esposito: 717 goals

A dominant power forward of his era, Phil Esposito was a master at scoring from around the net. His 717 goals largely came from his relentless drive to the crease and his ability to finish plays in high-traffic areas, making him a perennial scoring leader in the 1970s.

6. Marcel Dionne: 731 goals

A prolific scorer for the Los Angeles Kings, Marcel Dionne dazzled with his quick hands, precise shooting, and remarkable playmaking ability. He consistently put up elite numbers throughout his career, earning him a well-deserved spot among the all-time leading goal scorers.

5. Brett Hull: 741 goals

One of the purest snipers to ever grace the ice, Brett Hull was a master of finding open space and unleashing a lethal wrist shot. His 741 goals were a product of his uncanny ability to put the puck in the net from seemingly anywhere, making him one of the most dangerous offensive threats of his generation.

4. Jaromir Jagr: 766 goals

A true global hockey legend, Jaromir Jagr's career spanned an incredible length across various leagues and continents. His 766 NHL goals are a testament to his unique skill, puck protection, and remarkable ability to adapt his game and maintain elite production deep into his career.

3. Gordie Howe: 801 goals

"Mr. Hockey" was the original standard-bearer for goal scoring and longevity in the NHL. Gordie Howe's remarkable career stretched across parts of five decades, and his 801 goals were a testament to his toughness, skill, and incredible consistency. He held the record for decades before Gretzky, setting a monumental benchmark.

2. Wayne Gretzky: 894 goals

For 26 years, Wayne Gretzky's 894 goals stood as the record in NHL history. "The Great One" achieved this incredible feat in just 1,487 games over his unparalleled 20-year career. While now second on the all-time goal list, his overall scoring prowess, including a record 1,963 assists for 2,857 points, remains widely considered unmatched.

1. Alex Ovechkin: 897 goals

"The Great Eight" has officially rewritten the NHL record books. With his signature one-timer from "Ovechkin's office" on the power play, Alex Ovechkin's relentless pursuit culminated in April 2025 when he broke the all-time goal record against the New York Islanders. His 897 (and counting) goals solidify his place as the undisputed greatest pure goal scorer in the history of the National Hockey League.

Alex Ovechkin's ascent to the top of the NHL's all-time goal list is a monumental achievement that has captivated hockey fans worldwide. It's a testament to his singular focus on scoring, his enduring skill, and his incredible will to dominate. While the comprehensive brilliance of Wayne Gretzky's career remains unparalleled, Ovechkin has undeniably earned his place as the ultimate goal-scoring king.