WASHINGTON — In a landmark game, hockey legend Wayne Gretzky was present to watch Alex Ovechkin score his 893rd career goal, just one shy of tying Gretzky’s own NHL record. This marked Gretzky’s first live attendance during Ovechkin’s record-chasing journey, underscoring its significance to “the integrity of the game.” Reflecting on when Gordie Howe was present for his own record-setting feat in 1994, Gretzky stressed the importance of supporting anyone who surpasses their record.
During the intermission of the Washington Capitals’ match against the Chicago Blackhawks, Gretzky described his philosophy: “When I broke Gordie’s record my dad told me be as proud of the guy that breaks your record,” he recalled. Years ago, Gretzky promised to be there if Ovechkin approached his milestone, vowing to witness this historic event live. Ovechkin, elated by Gretzky’s attendance, expressed his gratitude, citing the legendary player’s consistent support. “It’s a fun time right now,” Ovechkin remarked, emphasizing the present focus on the game while acknowledging the coolness of the moment.
Seated in team owner Ted Leonsis’ suite alongside NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman and FBI Director Kash Patel, Gretzky expressed his joy for the NHL. “This is so good for hockey,” he stated, articulating his pride in Ovechkin and the positive impact on the sport globally. The game also saw the attendance of NHLPA executive director Marty Walsh, alongside Gretzky and his wife, Janet, who arrived together before the match commenced.
Winger Tom Wilson, also hailing from Ontario like Gretzky, highlighted the event’s magnitude. “It’s bigger than the game right now,” he said, emphasizing the energy enveloping this momentous occasion and praising Gretzky, known as the ‘Great One.’ The journey to this point has been monumental, with Gretzky again in the spotlight as Ovechkin nears the 895-goal mark, much as Howe had been for him in 1994 when reaching 802.
For Capitals center Dylan Strome, Gretzky’s presence signals excitement: “The greatest player of all time is coming to follow us for however long it takes.” Strome alluded to the robust relationship between Ovechkin and Gretzky and acknowledged that Gretzky’s contributions to hockey and Canada exemplify his enduring role as an ambassador for the game.
As anticipation builds for what has been dubbed the “GR8 chase,” Gretzky’s presence in the arena has amplified the excitement. Retired defenseman and NHL Network analyst Jason Demers, attending the game and participating in pre-game coverage, spoke to the persuasive camaraderie among players. “It just shows you how close the players are in the game and how much respect there is between both of them,” Demers commented. Highlighting Gretzky’s support for Ovechkin even as the latter approaches removing Gretzky’s name from a record, Demers framed this as a testament to the supportive spirit that renders hockey such a special sport.