Capitals’ Alex Ovechkin scores 892nd goal, makes stunning revelation about NHL legend Gretzky’s support

Alex Ovechkin’s quest to break Wayne Gretzky’s all-time NHL goal record is reaching its climax, as the Russian star sits just three goals away from making history. Ovechkin netted his 892nd career goal in the Washington Capitals’ 5-1 loss to the Carolina Hurricanes on Wednesday, extending his scoring streak to three consecutive games.

All eyes are now on the Capitals’ upcoming matchup against the Chicago Blackhawks on Friday, where Gretzky himself will be in attendance at Capital One Arena. With two goals, Ovechkin would tie Gretzky’s legendary mark; a hat trick would make him the sole record holder.

Despite the historic significance of the moment, Ovechkin remains unfazed. “It feels the same,” he said about being on the verge of the milestone. However, the atmosphere on Friday is expected to be electric.

Gretzky has been a vocal supporter of Ovechkin’s pursuit, predicting as early as the 2020 NHL All-Star Game that Ovechkin had “a legitimate chance” to break the record. Last October, Gretzky reaffirmed his belief: “It’s just a matter of time, whether it’s late this year, early next year, whenever.”

Gretzky’s support for Ovechkin

Ovechkin has expressed deep appreciation for Gretzky’s support. “He’s great. He’s great for hockey,” Ovechkin said, per NHL.com. “We have a relationship. He told me he supports me, and I’m pretty sure he’s going to join the team and follow us.”

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Gretzky has held the NHL’s goal-scoring record since surpassing Gordie Howe’s 801 goals in 1994. At the time, many believed the milestone was untouchable. However, Ovechkin’s relentless scoring has proven otherwise. “The great thing about sports is that amazing things can be accomplished,” Commissioner Bettman said. “To see Alex Ovechkin have an amazing career and now be on the verge of breaking a record that nobody ever thought was possible—it’s historic, and it’s a testament to both Wayne and Alex.”

Ovechkin’s signature goal fuels the countdown

Ovechkin’s 892nd goal was one of Washington’s few bright spots in an otherwise disappointing loss. The goal came off a signature one-time blast from the left circle during a 5-on-3 power play—one of the trademarks that has defined his prolific career.

When will Ovechkin break Gretzky’s record?

The anticipation surrounding Friday’s game against the Blackhawks continues to grow, as Ovechkin stands on the brink of history. The last time he needed three goals to reach a milestone against Chicago, he delivered—scoring a hat trick in a 7-3 victory on Dec. 13, 2022, to become just the third player in NHL history to reach 800 goals.

Now, with the chance to etch his name atop the NHL’s all-time goal-scoring list, Ovechkin’s next game could be one of the most memorable moments in hockey history.