Alex Ovechkin Ties Wayne Gretzky’s NHL All-Time Goal Record at 894 Career Goals

Alex Ovechkin Matches Wayne Gretzky’s Legendary NHL Goal-Scoring Record

In a historic moment for hockey, Washington Capitals captain Alex Ovechkin tied Wayne Gretzky’s all-time NHL goals record (894) with a second-period goal against the Chicago Blackhawks on Friday. The 39-year-old legend unleashed his signature one-timer from the left circle off a pass from teammate John Carlson, sending the puck past goaltender Spencer Knight and sparking a thunderous ovation at Capital One Arena. Among those cheering were Gretzky himself, NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman, and FBI Director Kash Patel.

[Image: Ovechkin celebrates his 894th goal, mobbed by teammates]
Caption: Ovechkin celebrates tying Gretzky’s record as teammates swarm him.

A Legacy of Dominance
Ovechkin’s career began in 2005 after a delayed debut due to the 2004 NHL lockout. He announced his arrival with two goals in his first game and soon became a scoring machine. By 2007, he had his first 50-goal season, and milestones followed relentlessly: 100 goals in 2007, 500 in 2016, and 800 in 2022. His iconic "The Goal" in 2006—a jaw-dropping effort while sliding on his back—cemented his reputation as a generational talent.

[Image: Young Ovechkin celebrates an early career goal]
Caption: A young Ovechkin during his explosive rookie season.

Trophies, Titles, and Triumph
Ovechkin’s trophy case brims with accolades: three Hart Trophies (MVP), nine Rocket Richard Trophies (leading goal-scorer), and the 2018 Stanley Cup, ending Washington’s 43-year championship drought. His playoff struggles—including repeated defeats to rivals like Pittsburgh—made the Cup win even sweeter. He earned the Conn Smythe Trophy as playoff MVP, scoring 15 goals in 24 games to lead the Capitals past Vegas.

[Image: Ovechkin hoisting the Stanley Cup in 2018]
Caption: Ovechkin’s long-awaited Stanley Cup victory in 2018.

Controversy and Consistency
Despite his on-ice heroics, Ovechkin’s vocal support for Russian President Vladimir Putin has drawn scrutiny. His Instagram profile still features a photo with Putin, and he founded the “PutinTeam” in 2017 to back the leader. However, his focus remains on hockey. At 39, he’s defied age, scoring 28 goals this season alone.

What’s Next?
Ovechkin can break Gretzky’s record as soon as Sunday against the New York Islanders. With 72 playoff goals (15th all-time), another deep postseason run could further cement his legacy. Though the Capitals have struggled in recent playoffs, Ovechkin’s pursuit of 1,000 goals seems plausible. As NHL analyst Barry Melrose once said, “He’s a goal-scoring machine. You just can’t stop him.”

[Image: Ovechkin saluting fans during his curtain call]
Caption: Ovechkin acknowledges the crowd after his historic goal.

From lockout delays to legendary highs, Ovechkin’s journey reflects grit, talent, and an unrelenting drive to dominate. Hockey fans worldwide now watch as he takes aim at rewriting history—one slapshot at a time.

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