"The Magnificent 8" stands alongside "The Greatest of All Time," and is ready to achieve a new landmark.
As Wayne Gretzky looked on from a box at Capital One Arena, Alexander Ovechkin moved nearer to making history by scoring his 893rd and 894th career goals, tying him for the top spot on the NHL’s all-time list.
The tying goal, which equaled some historical record, was scored midway through the third period against the Chicago Blackhawks. He grabbed the puck and sped towards the net from the left wing during a Capitals power play, ultimately putting it beyond the reach of the goaltender.
As Ovechkin went down on one knee, the Capitals' bench rushed onto the ice to join in the celebration of this landmark goal. Meanwhile, throngs of red-wearing supporters filling the stadium erupted into cheers.
The Capitals forward reached his 894th goal in five less games compared to Gretzky.
"It’s fine,” Gretzky stated during an in-game interview when discussing Ovechkin equaling his record. “My father used to tell Gordie Howe those words ages ago. That’s precisely what this sport is all about.”
That’s the essence of this sport... Alex has really made a mark with the Washington Capitals... He’s also done his nation, Russia, proud... I feel incredibly proud of him... His achievements fill me with pride. That’s what makes our game truly special.
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 the record-breaking goal along with a hat-trick right here at their arena, yet he informed his coaching staff that he prefers not to secure this record through scoring into an unoccupied net.
Coach Spencer Carbery mentioned to journalists, "He aims to set a new record with a goalie positioned in the crease, and I respect his determination." He further explained, "He communicated this to me from the sidelines, so I simply wanted to ensure that he wasn’t thinking about giving up."
Even Ted Leonsis, the owner of the Capitals, joined in the celebration after the game, partying with the team and Gretzky in the locker room.
What a night. Wayne and Alex—are practically 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 goal away—from being solo atop. Wayne reigns as the greatest player ever—and the most classy individual—the game recognizes game.
Ovechkin has been on fire recently as he pursues this prestigious milestone, scoring goals in five out of his last six matches, positioning himself to create history.
Some players truly stand out from the crowd," remarked John Carlson, who set up Ovechkin's goal, to journalists following the match. "Only a select few seem able to do what they do. It felt almost certain.
The NHL has committed to broadcasting all Capitals games nationally for the remainder of the season as Ovechkin pursues the top spot in goal-scoring.
For those eager to see history unfold, tune in for the game between the Capitals and the Islanders at 12:30 p.m. on April 6th, broadcasted live on TNT.
Related stories:
- Fencing Athlete Declines Match Against Transgender Rival Disqualified From University of Maryland Clash (VIDEO)
- Excitement Grows as Maryland Basketball Announces Hire of Texas A&M Coach to Take Over from Kevin Willard
- Kevin Willard Departs Maryland for Villanova Following Stellar Sweet 16 Appearance