The Speedsters of the NHL: Fastest NHL Players to 500 Points

In the fast-paced world of professional ice hockey, speed is often the name of the game. When it comes to racking up points in the NHL, some players have managed to reach the coveted 500 points milestone faster than others. In this article, we’ll explore the careers of these hockey legends and their remarkable journeys to 500 points.

Fastest Hockey Players To 500 Points

#	Name	Games
1	Wayne Gretzky	234
2	Mario Lemieux	287
3	Peter Stastny	322
4	Mike Bossy	349
5	Eric Lindros	352
6	Jari Kurri	356
7	Bryan Trottier	362
8	Sidney Crosby	369
9	Connor McDavid	369

1. Wayne Gretzky – 234 Games

Wayne Gretzky, known as “The Great One,” is not only a hockey legend but also the fastest player to ever reach 500 points in the NHL. Gretzky achieved this remarkable feat in just 234 games, setting a record that still stands today. His average of 2.36 points per game is a testament to his incredible skill and dominance on the ice.

Gretzky’s career was filled with numerous achievements, including Wayne Gretzky has won 4 Stanley Cups to his name, and all of these cups he won with the Edmonton Oilers in the years 1983-84, 1985-85, 1986-87, and 1987-88. Along with four Stanley cups, he also won two Conn Smyth trophies being a most valuable player on two of these trips.

Moreover, he scored 894 goals, provided 1,963 assists, and amassed a staggering 2,857 points. He earned the Hart Memorial Trophy nine times, solidifying his status as one of the greatest players in hockey history. Even after retiring, Gretzky continued to contribute to the sport by becoming a broadcaster for TNT.

2. Mario Lemieux – 287 Games

Mario Lemieux, another hockey icon, is the second fastest NHL player to reach 500 points, accomplishing the milestone in just 287 games. Lemieux’s unique combination of size and speed made him a formidable force on the ice. Despite dealing with injuries throughout his career, he managed to secure 1,723 points in 915 games.

Lemieux’s contributions to the sport didn’t end with his playing days. Since 1999, he has been a part-owner of the Pittsburgh Penguins, witnessing the team’s success with multiple Stanley Cup victories.

3. Peter Stastny – 322 Games

Peter Stastny, a prolific scorer, and a prominent figure in the 1980s NHL, reached 500 points in 322 games. He was known for his exceptional offensive skills and played a crucial role alongside Wayne Gretzky during that era. Stastny also achieved the milestone of 1,000 points in 682 games.

After retiring, Stastny has stayed involved in various activities, with a particular interest in watching his son Paul Stastny’s hockey career.

4. Mike Bossy – 349 Games

Mike Bossy, a legendary goal scorer, became the fourth-quickest player to reach 500 points in the NHL, doing so in just 349 games. Bossy spent his entire career with the New York Islanders, winning four Stanley Cups during his tenure. His impressive record includes 1,126 points in 752 games.

Bossy’s contributions extended beyond the ice as he worked in various roles, including as the Vice President of Titan. Unfortunately, he passed away in April 2022 after battling lung cancer.

5. Eric Lindros – 352 Games

Eric Lindros, a powerful center, reached 500 points in 352 games, making him the fifth fastest player to achieve this milestone. Lindros played 13 seasons and recorded 865 points during his career. He was a four-time recipient of the Bobby Clarke Trophy, awarded to the most valuable player of the Philadelphia Flyers.

After his retirement, Lindros briefly served as an ombudsman of the NHLPA and has since been involved in media, charity, and alumni events. The Philadelphia Flyers retired his No. 88 jersey in his honor.

6. Jari Kurri – 356 Games

Jari Kurri, hailing from Finland, became the fifth fastest player to reach 1,000 points, accomplishing this milestone in 716 games. During his career, he amassed 1,398 points, with 601 goals and 797 assists. Kurri was the 1986 NHL goal-scoring leader and a recipient of the Lady Byng Memorial Trophy.

Kurri’s involvement in hockey continues as he serves as the owner and GM of the KHL team, Jokerit, showcasing his enduring passion for the sport.

7. Bryan Trottier – 362 Games

Bryan Trottier achieved the 500 points milestone in his 362nd game in the NHL. Over his 18th season career, Trottier recorded an impressive 1,425 points and secured six Stanley Cups, with four of them coming during his time with the New York Islanders.

Trottier’s contributions to the sport extended to coaching and community involvement. He now dedicates his time to teaching young generations about their heritage and instilling leadership skills in them.

8. Sidney Crosby – 369 Games

Sidney Crosby, the captain of the Pittsburgh Penguins, reached the 500 points mark in his 369th game. Crosby’s career has been marked by numerous accolades, including three Stanley Cup victories. As of 2023, he has accumulated 550 goals and 952 assists in 1,190 games.

Crosby’s contract with the Penguins expires after the 2024-25 season, leaving the future open to exciting possibilities.

9. Connor McDavid – 369 Games

Sharing the eighth place with Sidney Crosby, Connor McDavid reached 500 points in his 369th game. As the captain of the Edmonton Oilers, McDavid has earned accolades like the Ted Lindsay Award and Hart Memorial Trophy. With 303 goals, 547 assists, and 850 points in 569 games, McDavid continues to impress.

The 2023-24 season promises to be another exciting chapter in McDavid’s career, with the potential to break his career-high record for points.

Conclusion

In conclusion, these players have left an indelible mark on the NHL, not only for their speed but also for their incredible scoring abilities. Their journeys to 500 points serve as a testament to their talent and dedication to the sport of ice hockey.