EDMONTON – In an electrifying display of skill and finesse, Edmonton Oilers captain Connor McDavid etched his name into the history books, becoming the fifth-fastest player in NHL history to reach 900 points. This remarkable feat was achieved during the Oilers’ commanding 5-2 victory over the Philadelphia Flyers at Rogers Place on Tuesday.
McDavid’s milestone moment came with an exceptional behind-the-back assist to Zach Hyman, marking the Oilers’ second goal of the game. The play began with Leon Draisaitl sweeping the puck to McDavid in the corner. Demonstrating his extraordinary vision and skill, McDavid, with his back to the play, executed a flawless backhand pass through two Flyers defenders, finding Hyman en route to the net. Hyman capitalized on this opportunity, deftly lifting a backhand shot past Flyers goaltender Carter Hart.
The assist was not just a highlight-reel moment but also a significant statistical achievement for McDavid, bringing him to 900 points in just 602 games. This accomplishment places him in the esteemed company of Hockey Hall of Famers: Wayne Gretzky (385 games), Mario Lemieux (463), Mike Bossy (582), and Peter Stastny (599).
Teammate Zach Hyman praised McDavid’s unparalleled playmaking ability, stating, “He just makes plays that nobody else can make. That’s why he is who he is.” McDavid’s impact on the game and his team is undeniable, as evidenced by his 10 five-point games, the most among active NHL players, and a career-best six-point game against the Colorado Avalanche in 2019.
The Oilers’ recent performance under the guidance of coach Kris Knoblauch and assistant Paul Coffey has been remarkable, with the team amassing a 16-6-0 record since November 12. The victory against the Flyers extended their winning streak to six games, bringing them within a point of the Arizona Coyotes for the second wild card into the Stanley Cup Playoffs from the Western Conference.
McDavid’s journey to this milestone has been laden with accolades, including five Art Ross Trophies, three Hart Trophies, and four Ted Lindsey Awards. Despite an early-season upper-body injury, he has bounced back to dominate the scoring race, currently standing third with 53 points (20 goals, 41 assists) in 33 games.
Reflecting on his achievement, McDavid humbly noted, “It’s another nice milestone, one that’s kind of along the way.” The Oilers, rejuvenated and climbing the ranks, are set to extend their winning streak in their upcoming game against the Ottawa Senators.
This milestone for McDavid is not just a personal achievement but a testament to his extraordinary talent and influence in the NHL, further solidifying his status as one of the greatest players of his generation.
