Alex Ovechkin Nears Goal Record Utilizing Specialized Faceoff Circle Plays

Alex Ovechkin has scored 210 goals from the faceoff circle since the 2007-08 season as he pursues Wayne Gretzky’s record of 894.

Alex Ovechkin is approaching Wayne Gretzky’s NHL record of 894 goals, supported by specific faceoff play designs known as "Shooter Back" and "Board Side O." According to MoneyPuck data, Ovechkin has scored 210 goals from the faceoff circle since the 2007-08 season. Washington Capitals coach Spencer Carbery noted that these plays aim to get the puck to Ovechkin for a clean shot anywhere inside the top of the circles, an area often referred to as "Ovi's Office."

The Capitals currently lead the NHL with 3.58 goals per game, and their power play ranks ninth with a 23.7% success rate. A key factor in this production is the use of left-handed centers like Dylan Strome, who pull the puck onto Ovechkin’s forehand during draws. Strome has played over 480 minutes at 5-on-5 with Ovechkin this season, while the duo has spent more than 142 minutes together on the power play.

Opposing players, including Andrei Vasilevskiy and Roman Josi, describe Ovechkin’s shot as a high-velocity "knuckleball" that frequently changes direction. Vasilevskiy stated the shot is nearly impossible to react to when it wobbles. Despite the predictability of his positioning, Ovechkin maintains his scoring pace through quick separation and the ability to fire imperfect or bouncing pucks within half a second. Beyond scoring, Ovechkin ranks 56th in NHL history with 724 assists, often utilizing the defensive focus on his shot to find teammates like Tom Wilson or John Carlson.