Connor McDavid reached 1,000 career NHL points on Thursday at Rogers Place. The Edmonton Oilers captain achieved this milestone in 659 games. He became the fourth-fastest player to reach 1,000 points, after Wayne Gretzky, Mario Lemieux and Mike Bossy. McDavid’s father, mother, wife Lauren Kyle, and their dog, Lenny, were there to celebrate with him.
Before the game against the Columbus Blue Jackets, McDavid was presented with a golden stick by the Oilers. His teammates, Leon Draisaitl, Ryan Nugent-Hopkins and Darnell Nurse, also gave him a custom-engraved Rolex watch. A video tribute highlighted McDavid's journey to 1,000 points.
Lauren shared a photo on Instagram of McDavid and her sharing a kiss after the ceremony. She captioned the picture:
“We are so proud of you @mcdavid97.”
She also posted other pictures from the celebration with family, friends and Lenny.
Lenny became a highlight of the ceremony. McDavid shared that Lenny has always been there for him, especially after tough games.
"No kids, so he's the closest thing I've got," McDavid said (via Sportsnet). "He's a great little dog and I love him. It was great having him out there.”
Lauren Kyle also spoke about Lenny’s role in their lives. She explained how Lenny offers support after every game.
"I think the (after the) worst games, when you come home and your dog's just there for nothing but support, and that means the most to him (Connor), and he's (Lenny) just been there throughout the years to support him," she said (via Sportsnet). "So it means so much for us that he was able to be a part of this moment. So we're really happy”
Connor McDavid reflects on family's role in achieving 1,000 points milestone
Edmonton Oilers forward Zach Hyman praised Connor McDavid's remarkable pace, emphasizing the rarity of hitting 1,000 points before 1,000 games.
“The pace he hit is remarkable, especially this era of hockey,” Hyman said (via NHL.com). “To be able hit 1,000 points well before 1,000 games played is pretty insane...”
McDavid also reflected on the significance of having his family present, acknowledging their crucial role in his success.
“It’ll be nice to have some family out there,” McDavid said. “It’s nice to see them get recognized as well. They’ve had just a big a hand in this as anybody. It’s nice to have them here and see them out there on the ice.”
The Oilers and McDavid will next face the St. Louis Blues on Saturday.