Alex Ovechkin closes in on Gretzky’s goal record

Alex Ovechkin of the Washington Capitals is on the verge of making history in the NHL by breaking Wayne Gretzky’s career goals record of 894. With 868 goals under his belt, Ovechkin is only 27 goals away from setting a new record.

Entering his 20th NHL season, Ovechkin has been in stellar form, scoring 15 goals in the first 18 games of the season. At this pace, he is projected to surpass Gretzky’s record sometime in late February.

In his recent game against the Utah Hockey Club, Ovechkin showcased his scoring prowess by netting two goals before leaving the game in the third period due to a left leg injury. These goals marked the 178th different goaltender he has scored on in his illustrious career, tying him with Jaromir Jagr. Ovechkin now has a total of 177 multi-goal games, second only to Gretzky.

The Capitals’ next game is against the Colorado Avalanche, but Ovechkin’s availability is uncertain due to his injury.

Ovechkin already holds several NHL records, including the most power-play goals (316) and shots on goal (6,690). He is also closing in on Jagr’s record for game-winning goals, needing just four more to surpass him.

Earlier this season, Ovechkin became the 60th player in NHL history to reach 700 career assists, currently sitting at 707. He joins an elite group of players, including Gretzky, Gordie Howe, Jagr, Marcel Dionne, and Phil Esposito, as the only ones with 700 goals and 700 assists.

Having surpassed legendary players like Mike Gartner, Brett Hull, and Jagr in the all-time goal-scoring list, Ovechkin now sits in second place behind Gretzky. The Great One set the record with 894 goals in 1994 and remains the holder of several unbreakable records, such as total points and assists.

As Ovechkin continues his pursuit of Gretzky’s record, hockey fans around the world are eagerly awaiting the moment when he etches his name in NHL history as the greatest goal-scorer of all time.