Alex Ovechkin is now tied with hockey legend Wayne Gretzky, who scored two goals on Friday night, taking his career total to 894 – a figure that has long been considered unbeatable. Just one more goal, and Ovechkin will officially become the NHL’s all-time leading goal scorer. (As of April 4, 2025, Ovechkin Goal Count total is 894 in NHL career)
The milestone came during a match between the Washington Capitals and the Chicago Blackhawks at Capital One Arena, with Gretzky himself present to see history being made.
Ovechkin Delivers a Historic Performance
Ovechkin wasted no time getting on the scoreboard. Less than four minutes into the match, he fired a sharp one-timer past the goalkeeper who was set up by teammate Dylan Strome. His second goal came in trademark style — a powerful slapshot from his favorite zone near the left faceoff circle during a power play. It was a moment the crowd had been waiting for, and the arena was full of excitement.
Though he came close to scoring a third goal several times, the night ended with Ovechkin tying the record rather than surpassing it. The Capitals still have six games left in this regular season, giving Ovechkin a strong chance to break the record very soon. (Ovechkin Goal Count)
After the final whistle, the fans stood up, and his teammates showed their respect to him by banging their sticks on the boards. Even the Blackhawks lined up to congratulate him with a fist bump. Afterwards, Gretzky visited the Capitals’ locker room to shake Ovechkin’s hand in person – a true passing of the torch.
The Hockey World Watches a New Era Unfold
At 39, Ovechkin continues to defy age and expectations. Despite missing a month with a broken leg earlier this season, he has still managed to score 41 goals – which puts him tied for second-highest scorer in the league. Most of the top scorers are nearly a decade younger than him. (Ovechkin Goal Count)
This season, Ovechkin has reached the 40-goal milestone for the 14th time – the most ever by a player aged 35 or older. His longevity and outstanding performance have made him stand out.
Teammate Tom Wilson, who has spent his entire 12-year NHL career alongside Ovechkin, summed up the sentiment perfectly:
“Watching him up close all these years — it’s been the biggest honour of my career.”
From Rising Star to Record Breaker
Ovechkin’s journey began when he was drafted by the Capitals in 2004. He made an immediate impact, quickly establishing himself as the league’s most dangerous scorer. He led the NHL in goals nine times and, unlike many great players who slow down over time, Ovechkin just kept going.
Each milestone — 600 goals, then 700 — brought the conversation closer to a big question: Could he really break Gretzky’s record?
A Legacy Worth Celebrating
Gretzky’s goal record has stood since 1999. He first surpassed Gordie Howe’s record of 801 goals in 1994 and played until 1999, scoring 894 goals. For decades, it seemed untouched — until now. (Ovechkin Goal Count)
At Friday’s post-game press conference, both icons sat side by side. Gretzky, gracious and supportive, shared a heartfelt message:
“When I broke Gordie’s record, my dad told me, ‘Be as proud of the guy who breaks your record as you are of breaking Gordie’s.’ I’ve never forgotten that. Alex deserves this moment, and I hope he enjoys every bit of it.”
He continued, “One day, someone might break Alex’s record too — and I hope he’s there to shake their hand.”
What’s Next? (Ovechkin Goal Count)
Ovechkin is just one goal away from becoming the NHL’s all-time leading scorer. With six games left this season, all eyes will be on him as he tries to cross that final threshold and secure a place in hockey history that once seemed out of reach. (Ovechkin Goal Count)
Whether it happens next game or a little later, one thing is for sure – Alex Ovechkin has already cemented his place among the sport’s greatest athletes of all time. (Ovechkin Goal Count)
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