Alex Ovechkin is now just one goal shy of surpassing Wayne Gretzky for the most goals scored in NHL history. During Friday night’s home game against the Chicago Blackhawks, Ovechkin netted his second goal in the third period at 13:46 during a power play, bringing him closer to the legendary record.
Previously, Ovechkin had tied Gretzky’s record at 893 goals and had struggled to get near it for some time. The 39-year-old Russian star, with six games left this season, broke his drought by scoring again with 10:56 remaining in the game. Ovechkin’s goal came at 3:52 when he skillfully received a pass from Dylan Strome behind the net and redirected the puck off the post and goalie’s back into the net.
Shortly after, “Shake, Rattle & Roll” by Big Joe Turner—Ovechkin’s goal celebration song—played over the arena speakers as the crowd cheered, chanting “Ovi! Ovi!” The goal marked Ovechkin’s fourth consecutive game scoring streak and his 40th goal this season, the 14th time he has reached 40 goals in 20 NHL seasons, the most in league history for a player over 40 years old.
The Washington Capitals, currently leading the Eastern Conference, have six regular-season games remaining, including an upcoming visit to the New York Islanders this Sunday.
— Report by Associated Press
Fan Take: Ovechkin nearing Gretzky’s record is a monumental moment in hockey history, highlighting the endurance and skill of one of the game’s greatest talent. This milestone not only cements Ovechkin’s legacy but also inspires future generations and energizes the sport’s fanbase worldwide.
