The hunt for franchise records in the NHL is getting more and more exciting as key players attempt to break long-standing records in the 2024-25 season. Alex Ovechkin’s pursuit of Wayne Gretzky’s all-time goal total underscores the excitement of record-breaking endeavors, but franchise records, while less spectacular, have deep ties to a team’s history. This season, players like John Gibson, Sidney Crosby and Auston Matthews have their sights set on significant milestones, raising excitement about potential record-breaking feats across the league.
In numbers
- John Gibson needs 13 wins to break Anaheim’s record of 206.
- Sidney Crosby needs 30 assists to surpass Mario Lemieux’s record of 1,033.
- Auston Matthews is 52 goals behind Mats Sundin’s record of 420.
Yes but
While some players are on the verge of breaking franchise records, injuries, team performance and the competitive nature of the league could pose significant challenges. Historical data shows that maintaining peak performance in the later stages of a career can be unpredictable, hindering players’ ability to achieve their goals.
Current status
- Jordan Binnington is just six wins away from becoming the Blues’ record holder for wins.
- Victor Hedman and Nikita Kucherov are both vying for the Lightning’s assist record, needing 16 and 35 assists respectively.
What’s next
As the season progresses, these milestones will be the focus for fans and analysts alike. Given the level of competition in the NHL, these records are still up for grabs, potentially leading to a string of performances that could rewrite franchise history.
Conclusion
Record chases add an exciting touch to the NHL season because they showcase individual talent and the impact players make on their teams. Keep an eye on these milestones because they not only shed light on personal achievements, but also on the developing stories within each franchise.
