“The Magnificent 8” stands alongside “The Greatest of All Time,” and is ready to achieve a new landmark.
With Wayne Gretzky watching from a suite at Capital One Arena, Alexander Ovechkin inched closer to history as he scored the 893rd and 894th goals of his career to tie the all-time NHL record.
The tying goal, which equaled some historic record, was scored midway through the third period against the Chicago Blackhawks. He grabbed the puck and sped down the left wing, eventually placing it beyond the goalkeeper during a Capitals power play.
As Ovechkin fell to his knees, the Capitals’ bench rushed onto the ice to join in the celebration of this landmark goal, with throngs of red-wearing supporters filling the arena and cheering loudly.
The Capitals’ forward reached his 894th goal in a number of games that was one less than Gretzky’s.
“It’s fine,” Gretzky stated during an in-game interview when discussing Ovechkin equaling his record. “My father used to tell Gordie Howe something similar ages ago. This is precisely what the sport is all about.”
“That’s what this game is all about … Alex has been great for Washington (Capitals) … He’s been great for his own country (Russia) … And I’m very proud of him … I’m proud of what he accomplished. And that’s what makes our game so wonderful.
Ovechkin currently has six remaining regular-season games to break the record for most goals scored in NHL history, beginning with the game against the New York Islanders on Sunday afternoon.
The team leader of the Capitals apparently had the chance to play later in the match and achieve a record-breaking goal along with a hat-trick right here at their home arena, yet he informed his coaching staff that he prefers not to secure this achievement through scoring into an unguarded net.
“He wants to break the record with a goaltender in the crease, which I appreciate,” coach Spencer Carbery told reporters. “He told me that on the bench, and I just wanted to confirm that he didn’t want to go out.”
Even Ted Leonsis, the owner of the Capitals, joined in the celebration afterward, partying with the team and Gretzky in the locker room.
What a night. Wayne and Alex—they’re inseparable,” Leonsis shared on social media. “Talking about setting goals and surpassing expectations. So much class—dignity and history all in one place.
Only one more objective remains—to stand solo atop the pinnacle. Wayne outshines all as the greatest player ever—and undoubtedly the most elegant gentleman—the game recognizes true mastery.
Ovechkin has been on a tear lately as he chases down the hallowed record, notching goals in five of his last six games to set himself up to make history.
Some players truly embody the essence of living large,” remarked John Carlson, who set up Ovechkin’s goal, to the gathered journalists post-game. “Only a select few have what it takes. It appeared almost certain.
The NHL has committed to broadcasting all Capitals games nationwide for the remainder of the season as Ovechkin pursues the top spot in goal-scoring.
Those looking to witness history can watch the Capitals take on the Islanders at 12:30 p.m. on April 6 on TNT.
Related stories:
- Fencer Refuses To Compete Against Trans Opponent DQ’d From College Park Tournament (VIDEO)
- Excitement Grows as Maryland Basketball Appoints Texas A&M Coach to Take Over from Kevin Willard
- Kevin Willard Departs Maryland for Villanova Following Stellar Sweet 16 Performance
