Oilers center Connor McDavid became the sixth-fastest player in NHL history to 600 points on Sunday, reaching the milestone in 421 games. Only Wayne Gretzky (274), Mario Lemieux (323), Peter Stastny (394), Mike Bossy (400) and Jari Kurri (419) needed fewer games to reach that total.
The Oilers center's 600th point came with seconds remaining in the first period against the St. Louis Blues. Zach Hyman made a centering pass from right of the goal to McDavid, who one-timed the puck into the back of the net to tie the game at 1-1.
McDavid, only 24 years old, has led the NHL in points scored in three previous seasons (2016, 2017 and 2020) and is the league's reigning MVP. He has helped lead Edmonton to a 10-3 start so far this season.
The four-time All-Star scored his 200th career goal last month in his 411th game — the fourth fastest in Oilers history.
(Top photo: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports)
What does this latest accolade say about McDavid?
Daniel Nugent-Bowman, Oilers beat writer: McDavid is only 24 years old, but he's already one of the best players in NHL history. He could retire tomorrow and he'd be a Hockey Hall of Famer after the three-year waiting period passes. There's simply no debate.
He already has the hardware to support his case. He's a three-time Art Ross Trophy and Ted Lindsay Award winner and he's won the Hart Trophy twice. Recording his 600th point in just his 421st game only further illustrates his dominance.
What it means for him to join this company
Nugent-Bowman: The five players ahead of McDavid on this list are Hall of Famers and some of the sport's all-time greats. That he's in their company is significant. But it doesn't tell the whole story. Those players all started their careers or spent the entirety of it in higher-scoring eras compared to now. For McDavid to be sixth here — and be so close to Kurri, and within striking distance of Bossy and Stastny — is remarkable.
Advertisem*nt
Expectations for McDavid this season
Nugent-Bowman: Expectations are sky high. After winning the scoring title with 105 points in just 56 games last season and being named the second unanimous MVP winner, McDavid is the runaway favorite to claim both trophies again.
More importantly for him and his team, the Oilers are expected to take the next step toward Stanley Cup contention. The Oilers have been one of the NHL's best teams since the season began. McDavid is a big reason why.
Get all-access to exclusive stories.
Subscribe to The Athletic for in-depth coverage of your favorite players, teams, leagues and clubs. Try a week on us.
