Ovechkin Scores 889th Goal, Closing In On Gretzky’s Record

In a thrilling matchup between the Washington Capitals and the Winnipeg Jets on March 26, 2025, Alexander Ovechkin cemented his place in NHL history by scoring his 889th career goal. This remarkable feat brings him just five goals away from surpassing Wayne Gretzky's all-time record of 894 goals, a milestone that has captivated hockey fans worldwide.

The game itself was intense, with both teams dueling for vital playoff positioning. Ovechkin's goal came in the dying minutes of the third period, allowing the Capitals to tie the game at 2-2 before heading into overtime. This was no easy task, as the Jets initially took the lead with goals from Josh Morrissey and Mason Appleton, sandwiching a strike by Andrew Mangiapane that kept Washington in contention.

Ovechkin found the back of the net at the 56th minute, a moment that thrilled his teammates and fans alike. He scored thanks to a beautiful setup from Belarusian teammate Alexey Protas, showcasing their chemistry on the ice. It was a signature Ovechkin goal, scored from his favorite shooting spot, often referred to as his 'office'—the left circle near the faceoff dot.

“It was like a playoff game,” Ovechkin stated after the match, emphasizing the high stakes and intensity the game unfolded with. His goal not only tied the game but also marked his 150th career goal that brought his team back into contention during the final moments of regular time.

Despite Ovechkin's contributions, the Capitals fell short in the overtime period. The Jets quickly capitalized, with Nikolaj Ehlers netting the game-winner just two minutes into the extra session, sealing the Capitals' fate with a 3-2 loss. However, the game left Washington in a strong position within the Eastern Conference, maintaining their lead with 103 points, with 11 games left in the regular season.

Ovechkin's outstanding performance this season, which includes 36 goals and 24 assists in just 55 games played, positions him to not only challenge Gretzky's record but potentially surpass it. His average of 0.66 goals per game this season puts him on pace to break the record by April 15, 2025, during a game against the New York Islanders, provided he maintains his current scoring momentum.

The historical chase for Gretzky's record has fueled discussions within the league, with many including Winnipeg's coach, Arneil, speaking highly of Ovechkin's relentless pursuit. “I’m glad Ovechkin is getting closer to Gretzky’s record,” he remarked, highlighting the respect and admiration colleagues have for the 39-year-old forward's achievements.

Ovechkin's goal in Winnipeg highlighted his ability to perform under pressure, a characteristic that has endeared him to fans and earned him a status as one of the league’s all-time greats. As he continues to inch closer to this monumental achievement, the excitement surrounding each game intensifies for both Ovechkin and his supporters.

As the regular season nears its conclusion, Ovechkin's legacy continues to grow. With each game, fans and analysts alike keep their eyes locked on him, hoping for that historic moment when he will etch his name into the records of the National Hockey League as the all-time leading goal scorer. With only five goals to go, Ovechkin's goal-scoring prowess is under the spotlight like never before, making every Capitals game a must-watch event in the quest for hockey history.