Columbus Blue Jackets

NHL Trade Talk Morning Roundup: Ovechkin, Crosby & Hyman

In our NHL Trade Talk Morning Roundup (Jan 18), Ovechkin chases Gretzky, Crosby chases Howe, Hyman on fire since returning in early December

by
Old Prof
January 18, 2025

Welcome to today’s NHL Trade Talk Morning Roundup (January 18). Each morning, we will bring you three key NHL stories. Here, you can stay updated on the latest team wins and losses, trade talk, and player news from around the NHL. In today’s roundup, we offer news on one of the surprise teams of the current season. The Columbus Blue Jackets are currently in a postseason spot. Who would have thought it? Perhaps the biggest news to watch is Alex Ovechkin’s historic chase of Wayne Gretzky’s all-time goal record. He’s now only 21 goals behind.

Ovechkin Now Sits Only 21 Goals Behind Gretzky

The prolific Alex Ovechkin (874) now sits only 21 goals away from breaking Wayne Gretzky’s all-time NHL goals record (894). On Thursday, his game-winning goal notched him one closer. The great Sidney Crosby (with 604 goals and 1,040 assists for 1,644 points) also looks to continue his quest of catching Gordie Howe (with 1,049 assists) for 10th place on the all-time assists list. Right now, the Penguins captain is tied with Marcel Dionne (1,040 assists) for 11th place in NHL history.

Ovechkin has surpassed Jaromir Jagr for the most goaltenders scored on in NHL history, now totaling 179. The Capitals put a 25-minute video together after he scored his first career goal against Leevi Merilainen.

Surprising Columbus Blue Jackets Are in Playoff Push

One of the feel-good stories of the NHL season is that the Columbus Blue Jackets are currently sitting in a playoff spot with 50 points. There are several reasons for the team’s surprising success. First, they are tied for the third-highest 5-on-5 shooting percentage (10.0%). Second, they are fifth in goals per game (3.38) and shots (30.0). Third, they have put together a strong home record (16-5-3) under head coach Dean Evason.

Zach Hyman Edmonton Oilers return — Zach Hyman of the Edmonton Oilers has been on fire since his return from injury.

Zach Hyman’s Return from Injury Has Been Strong

Hard-as-nails Zach Hyman has scored 26 points with 15 goals in 40 games. However, since his return from an injury in early December, he’s been on fire. He helped prop up the Oilers record and been one of the NHL’s top snipers. Hyman’s speed, courage in front of the opposing goalie, and success putting up high-danger shots help elevate the team’s play. He’s a perfect partner for Connor McDavid.

Hyman is making the Team Canada selection committee for the 4 Nations Face-Off tournament look foolish by overlooking him. The Oilers are probably thrilled he’ll be rested and ready for the final playoff push.