Alex Ovechkin tied Wayne Gretzky’s NHL record with 894 career goals on Friday, April 4, 2025, in his 1,486th game. The Washington Capitals superstar scored two goals against the Chicago Blackhawks, bringing him level with the legendary Gretzky and leaving him just one goal shy of breaking the record. Ovechkin’s first goal of the night came just 3:52 into the first period, showcasing his trademark one-timer from the right circle, beating Blackhawks goalie Spencer Knight. The second goal, scored on the power play at 6:14 into the third period, tied him with Gretzky, thrilling the 18,000 fans at Capital One Arena.
Ovechkin's remarkable achievement comes after nearly 20 seasons and close to 7,000 shots on net. "There’s no question of ‘if,’” said longtime teammate Lars Eller before the game. “It’s a question of ‘when.’” With six games remaining in the regular season, Ovechkin is poised to break the record, and the anticipation is palpable among fans and players alike.
The atmosphere in the arena was electric, especially with Gretzky in attendance, along with NHL commissioner Gary Bettman and several of Ovechkin’s former teammates. The night was a celebration of hockey history, and the energy reached a fever pitch as Ovechkin scored his 894th goal. “It’s something special,” Ovechkin remarked after the game, reflecting on the significance of the moment. “To do it at home in front of the fans, family, friends, obviously Wayne (Gretzky) is here as well, it’s a huge honor.”
Ovechkin’s two goals were pivotal in the Capitals’ 5-3 victory over the Blackhawks, marking a crucial win as the team aims for a playoff push. Dylan Strome, who had a hand in Ovechkin's scoring, noted, “The juice, the life that comes alive in the rink when he gets the puck — it’s pretty incredible.” With Ovechkin’s scoring prowess, every game feels like a spectacle, and fans are treated to a front-row seat to history.
As the Capitals prepare for their next game against the New York Islanders on Sunday, April 6, 2025, the excitement builds. Ovechkin will have another chance to make history on Long Island, where Gretzky scored his 894th goal back in 1999. The timing seems almost poetic, and Ovechkin is well aware of the significance. “I’m looking forward to it,” he said, hinting at the pressure and anticipation surrounding his pursuit of the record.
In addition to Ovechkin's milestones, rookie Ryan Leonard also made headlines by scoring his first career goal into an empty net late in the game, sealing the Capitals' victory. “It’s cool scoring an empty-netter, but at the end of the day, I witnessed history,” Leonard remarked, reflecting on the surreal experience of playing alongside Ovechkin during such a monumental moment.
The Capitals’ win was only their second in the last six games, but it provided a much-needed boost as they continue to fight for playoff positioning. Ovechkin's performance has inspired not just his teammates but also the entire fan base, who are eager to see him break the record. “Every game is becoming more and more of a spectacle,” Strome added, highlighting the unique atmosphere surrounding Ovechkin’s chase for greatness.
Looking ahead, the Capitals have a challenging schedule, with important games against the Carolina Hurricanes and a home-and-home against the Columbus Blue Jackets following the matchup with the Islanders. Ovechkin’s record-breaking attempt is eagerly anticipated, and fans are hopeful that he will achieve this historic feat soon.
As the season winds down, Ovechkin’s legacy continues to grow. He is already the all-time leader in empty-net goals and now stands on the precipice of becoming the NHL’s all-time leading goal scorer. The anticipation surrounding his next goal is palpable, and fans are counting down the days until they can witness history unfold.
In a sport defined by its legends, Ovechkin is cementing his place among the greatest. His ability to score at will, combined with his longevity and dedication to the game, has made him a beloved figure in the hockey world. As he chases Gretzky’s record, Ovechkin not only aims to leave his mark on the NHL but also to inspire the next generation of players.
With the Capitals’ next game just around the corner, all eyes will be on Ovechkin as he looks to surpass one of the most revered records in sports. The excitement is building, and the hockey world waits with bated breath for the moment when Ovechkin will finally take the lead. Will he do it against the Islanders? Or will he wait for a home crowd to celebrate his accomplishment? One thing is certain: the journey is just as thrilling as the destination.
As Ovechkin prepares for this monumental task, he carries the hopes of Capitals fans on his shoulders. The chase for greatness is not just about the numbers; it’s about the passion, the dedication, and the love for the game. Ovechkin embodies all of these qualities, and as he steps onto the ice, he does so with the heart of a champion.
In the end, it’s not just about tying a record; it’s about making history and creating memories that will last a lifetime. Ovechkin is on the brink of achieving something extraordinary, and the hockey world is ready to celebrate.
