ELMONT, N.Y. — The excitement was palpable at UBS Arena on Sunday afternoon as the New York Islanders hosted the Washington Capitals, with all eyes on Capitals captain Alex Ovechkin. The stage was set for history as Ovechkin entered the game just one goal shy of breaking Wayne Gretzky's all-time NHL goals record, tied at 894 career goals.
Ovechkin, who scored twice against the Chicago Blackhawks in a thrilling 5-3 victory on April 4, 2025, was looking to etch his name into the record books during his 1,487th NHL game. This game was particularly significant as it matched the number of games Gretzky played when he reached 894 goals, making the stakes even higher for the Capitals' star.
The puck dropped at 12:30 p.m. ET, and the atmosphere was electric, with a sold-out crowd cheering for Ovechkin as much as for their home team. Many fans had paid hefty prices for their tickets, eager to witness a historic moment. The game was broadcast live on TNT and truTV, with streaming options available for those who had cut the cord.
As the game began, the Islanders struck first. Bo Horvat netted a goal at 07:06 in the first period, assisted by Simon Holmstrom and Anders Lee, putting the Islanders up 1-0. Just two minutes later, at 09:00, Marc Gatcomb extended the lead to 2-0, capitalizing on a turnover and finishing off a rush with a quick shot past Capitals goalie Charlie Lindgren.
Despite the Capitals being down, they continued to press, with Ovechkin getting a deflection attempt early on that was stopped by Islanders goalie Ilya Sorokin. The Islanders maintained their lead through the first period, with shots favoring the Capitals 8-5.
In the second period, the Capitals fought back. Ovechkin finally found the back of the net at 07:26, scoring his 895th career goal on the power play, assisted by Tom Wilson and Dylan Strome. The arena erupted as Ovechkin celebrated his record-breaking goal, officially becoming the NHL's all-time leading goal scorer.
However, the Islanders quickly responded to regain control. Just three minutes after Ovechkin’s historic goal, Gatcomb scored again at 10:26, making it 3-1 for New York. The Islanders capitalized on a missed coverage in front of the net, putting the Capitals on their heels.
As the game progressed into the third period, the Islanders extended their lead further. Jean-Gabriel Pageau scored at 15:39, putting the game at 4-1, sealing the victory for New York. Despite the Capitals outshooting the Islanders overall, the final score reflected the Islanders' efficiency and defensive prowess.
While Ovechkin's milestone goal was a highlight, the Capitals faced a tough loss, falling to the Islanders 4-1. The defeat was a setback for Washington, who had been vying for a strong finish to the season with hopes of clinching a playoff spot.
After the game, Ovechkin reflected on the significance of breaking the record. “It’s a huge honor to be mentioned in the same breath as Wayne Gretzky. I grew up watching him, and to surpass him is something I never imagined,” he said. The presence of Gretzky and NHL commissioner Gary Bettman at the game added to the historical significance, as they witnessed Ovechkin's achievement firsthand.
The Capitals will look to bounce back in their next matchup, while the Islanders aim to build on their momentum as they continue to chase a playoff berth. With the season winding down, every game matters as teams jockey for position in the Eastern Conference.
As the NHL season progresses, fans will be eager to see how Ovechkin continues to add to his record and what other milestones may be achieved. The Capitals and Islanders will meet again on April 15, 2025, for another chance at a thrilling matchup.
The game concluded with the Islanders taking the win, but the day will long be remembered for Ovechkin’s historic moment, marking a new chapter in NHL history.
