Ovechkin scores twice to tie Gretzky's NHL goals record at 894
Washington Capitals left wing Alex Ovechkin (8) celebrating his 894th goal with teammates during the third period of an NHL hockey game against the Chicago Blackhawks, Friday, April 4, 2025, in Washington. Credit: AP/Mark Schiefelbein
WASHINGTON — Alex Ovechkin scored twice in Washington’s 5-3 win over Chicago on Friday night, tying Wayne Gretzky’s career goal record of 894.
Ovechkin will have a chance to set the record when the Capitals visit the Islanders on Sunday afternoon.
“[It will be] a blast. I think it’s a special thing he’s doing. It’s absolutely incredible,” the Islanders’ Anders Lee said Friday night. “We’re excited to play in that game and try to delay that celebration that they’re going to have and one that’s well deserved for him. Let’s not let it happen for us.”
Lee said of Ovechkin not taking the ice in an empty-net situation at the end of the game, not wanting to score that way: “I appreciate that. It’s a big one.”
Gretzky was in attendance for the first time during Ovechkin's chase. He is expected to attend Sunday's game.
Islanders coach Patrick Roy said, “We’re going to focus on us. I know it’s going to be hard, but that’s what we have to do. It’s an important game for our team and we’re going to continue to do exactly what we’ve been doing: focusing on the next game and staying in the present moment and focus on us.”
Ovechkin has 41 goals, reaching the 40 mark for the 14th time in 20 seasons, which is the most in league history.
Washington Capitals left wing Alex Ovechkin (8) celebrating his 894th goal with teammates during the third period of an NHL hockey game against Chicago Blackhawks, Friday, April 4, 2025, in Washington. Credit: AP/Mark Schiefelbein
Ovechkin took a pass from Dylan Strome and rifled a shot from deep in the right circle that hit the post and deflected off goalie Spencer Knight’s back at 3:52 of the first period. Strome has assisted on 20 of Ovechkin's goals this season.
Ovechkin scored on his classic slap shot during a power play at 6:13 of the third period off a feed from John Carlson.
With Andrew Gross
