Ovechkin reaches legendary status: 894 goals - tie with Gretzky!

Ovechkin reaches legendary status: 894 goals - tie with Gretzky!

In a memorable moment in NHL history, Alexander Ovechkin tied Wayne Gretzky's record with two goals in the Washington Capitals' 5-3 home win over the Chicago Blackhawks on Friday. With a total of 894 goals in the regular season, the 39-year-old striker is now on par with the legendary player, who also scored 894 goals between 1979 and 1999. Ovechkin was after his 1,486th. Game was overjoyed and called Gretzky's presence during the game a "huge honor."

Particularly moving was the support from Gretzky, who was present during the game and took a photo with the entire team in the Capitals locker room after the game. He also gave Ovechkin, his sons and the puck from Ovechki's 894th goal the honor of a joint photo. Wayne Gretzky praised Ovechkin, saying he was proud of him and said he was great for the sport.

Record and responsibility

Before the game, Gretzky sent a message asking Ovechkin to “score three goals.” Despite the request and several clear-cut chances, including a shot that hit Knight's shoulder, Ovechkin didn't want to step into the game for teammate Ryan Leonard on a possible empty goal. Leonard eventually scored his first NHL goal into an empty net to seal the 5-3 win.

Ovechkin scored his 41st goal of the season to make it 4-3 on the power play in the 47th minute. The fans celebrated him enthusiastically, and his sons were among the spectators who were able to witness the special event. Next Sunday, Ovechkin has a chance to become the sole record holder when the Capitals take on the New York Islanders.

Current developments in the NHL

Aside from Ovechki's historic moment, the NHL season was also exciting for other teams and players. Marco Kasper scored the goal to make it 2-0 in the Detroit Red Wings' 5-3 win against the Carolina Hurricanes and has 16 goals and 15 assists this season. The Red Wings remain in the Eastern Conference playoff race, but are four points behind the eighth-place Montreal Canadiens.

In contrast, the Minnesota Wild suffered another defeat with Marco Rossi. The team lost 3-1 to the New York Islanders and remains in eighth place in the Western Conference with five games remaining.