Alex Ovechkin Makes History, Claims NHL All-Time Goal Scoring Record
NEW YORK (AP) — Alex Ovechkin has cemented his place in hockey lore, surpassing Wayne Gretzky’s NHL record to become the all-time leading goal scorer.Ovechkin scored his 895th career goal on sunday during the Washington Capitals’ game against the New York Islanders.
Ovechkin’s landmark Goal: A Moment to Remember
Wiht 12:34 remaining in the second period, Ovechkin unleashed his signature one-timer on a power play, beating Islanders goaltender Ilya Sorokin. The goal, assisted by a cross-ice pass from longtime teammate Tom Wilson and a screen by defenseman Jakob Chychrun, ignited a frenzy.
Celebration ensues as Ovechkin Surpasses Gretzky
The 39-year-old Ovechkin, overcome with joy, belly flopped onto the ice as teammates mobbed him in celebration. Tens of thousands of fans at the arena erupted in cheers, chanting “Ovi! Ovi!”
“It’s a Team sport”: Ovechkin Credits Organization, Teammates, and Family
“Like I always said, all the time, it’s a team sport and without my boys — the whole organization, the fans, the trainers, coaches — I would never stand ther and obviously I would never pass the ‘Great One,'” Ovechkin said, acknowledging the vital role of his team, coaches, and fans in his journey.
Passing the Torch: Gretzky Congratulates Ovechkin
In a symbolic moment, Wayne Gretzky embraced Ovechkin and congratulated him and his family on the historic achievement. Gretzky also presented a gift to Ovechkin’s wife, Nastya, a gesture mirroring when Colleen Howe presented a gift to Gretzky’s wife when Gretzky broke Gordie Howe’s record in 1994. Ovechkin reached No. 895 in his 1,487th game – the same number Gretzky finished with.
Gretzky doubts his record will ever be topped
“There’s nothing better than the National hockey League,” Gretzky said. “They say records are made to be broken, but I’m not sure who’s going to get more goals than that.”
Gratitude and affection: Ovechkin’s Post-Game Remarks
Taking the microphone, Ovechkin thanked injured teammates nicklas Backstrom and T.J. Oshie,as well as expressed his love for his wife,mother,and children.”We did it, boys.We did it,” Ovechkin said.
WASHINGTON (AP) — Alex Ovechkin continues to redefine the NHL record books, surpassing Wayne Gretzky for the most 40-goal seasons in league history with 14. The milestone is the latest in Ovechkin’s relentless pursuit of Gretzky’s all-time goals record, solidifying his place among hockey’s elite.
The pursuit of Gretzky’s once-thought-untouchable record of 894 goals has been a dominant storyline in hockey, captivating fans across North America and Ovechkin’s native Russia. Billboards and goal counters have tracked his progress, underscoring the magnitude of his achievement.
Ovechkin’s Climb: Milestones and Records
Ovechkin reached the 800-goal mark on Dec. 23, 2022, with goals 801 and 802, passing Gordie Howe. He has also set NHL records for power-play goals and shots on goal, and has scored against more goalies than any other player. Ovechkin is also among a select group of six players with at least 700 goals and 700 assists, joining Gretzky, Howe, Jaromir Jagr, Marcel Dionne, and Phil Esposito.
Gretzky’s Enduring Legacy
While Ovechkin chases down Gretzky’s regular-season goal record, Gretzky still holds 55 NHL records, including an untouchable 2,857 total points and 1,963 assists.
Ovechkin’s Future
Ovechkin, who has one season remaining on his five-year, $47.5 million contract,will continue his pursuit of 900 goals. While a return to Russia to play in front of family and friends is a possibility in the future.
How might Ovechkin’s achievement impact the future of hockey and inspire the next generation of players?
Alex Ovechkin Makes History, Claims NHL All-Time Goal Scoring Record: Q&A
Frequently Asked Questions About ovechkin’s Record
What record did Alex Ovechkin break?
Ovechkin surpassed Wayne Gretzky’s NHL record to become the all-time leading goal scorer, scoring his 895th career goal.
How did Ovechkin score the record-breaking goal?
He scored with a signature one-timer on a power play,beating Islanders’ goaltender Ilya Sorokin. The goal was assisted by Tom wilson and Jakob Chychrun.
What was gretzky’s reaction?
Gretzky congratulated ovechkin and his family, embracing him in a symbolic moment. He also presented a gift to Ovechkin’s wife, Nastya.
Where did the historic game take place and who was the opponent?
The game was the Washington Capitals vs. the New York Islanders.
What other records dose Ovechkin hold?
Ovechkin has the most 40-goal seasons (14). He also holds NHL records for power-play goals and shots on goal. He has scored against more goalies than any other player. Additionally, he is among a select group of six players with at least 700 goals and 700 assists.
Does Gretzky still hold any records?
Yes, Gretzky still holds 55 NHL records, including total points (2,857) and assists (1,963), which are considered untouchable.
What is Ovechkin’s future plans?
Ovechkin has one season remaining on his contract, and he will continue his pursuit of reaching 900 goals. A return to Russia to play may be a possibility in the future.
Witnessing alex Ovechkin’s historic achievement is a testament to dedication and skill. Celebrate this monumental moment in hockey history!
