NEW YORK — Alex Ovechkin couldn’t hide his delight moments after scoring his 895th goal, surpassing Wayne Gretzky’s longstanding NHL record. As the puck soared into the net, Ovechkin celebrated by sliding on his stomach across the ice, reminiscent of a jubilant child in a pee-wee game. His signature gap-toothed grin lingered for hours afterward.
“We did it!” he exclaimed to his teammates amidst the electrifying atmosphere of a visiting arena, where over 17,000 fans watched his every move intently. “It’s history! Yeah!”
Ovechkin’s euphoria on achieving goal No. 895 was palpable, akin to his exuberance during numerous other milestones, recalling his jubilant plunge into a fountain in Washington after the Capitals’ 2018 Stanley Cup victory. “Almost,” Ovechkin noted, indicating how special both achievements are to him.
The Stanley Cup victory marked the pinnacle for the Capitals, yet this achievement felt distinct. While the Cup is claimed yearly, Ovechkin shattered a record that stood for over 30 years, with a possibility for his achievement to endure even longer. During a typically team-focused part of the season, Ovechkin’s pursuit captivated not only avid hockey fans but reached a global audience eager to witness history.
“It’s a testament to Ovi,” remarked center Dylan Strome. Strome, alongside Tom Wilson, assisted on Ovechkin’s record-breaking goal during a 4-1 loss to the New York Islanders. “Everyone wants to see him succeed because he’s such a happy guy. Whether it’s his goal or someone else’s, his joy is infectious, showcasing his character and why so many are thrilled for his success.”
The charismatic Russian superstar carved his niche by scoring uniquely while celebrating in memorable manners. From crashing into the glass to pretending his stick was ablaze, Ovechkin became one of the game’s faces, partly due to his childlike passion for hockey, despite being in his 20th NHL season. His love transcends the sport, resonating far beyond the Capitals’ fanbase.
“You just smile every time you see it,” noted coach Spencer Carbery, echoing Strome’s sentiments. Ovechkin’s joy is infectious not just when he scores, but also in celebrating his teammates’ successes, reflecting his leadership and the joy he brings to the game.
No team wanted to concede goal No. 895, but the Islanders — with netminder Ilya Sorokin, who, despite being a decade younger than Ovechkin, gifted him his stick — acknowledged the moment’s significance. “Everyone here tonight, regardless of team allegiance, appreciated Ovi’s feat,” said Islanders captain Anders Lee.
The anticipation leading to this record was as thrilling as the achievement itself. Fans from Washington to Moscow tracked Ovechkin’s chase, with ticket prices fluctuating based on his proximity to surpassing Gretzky. Despite the mounting pressure at age 39, Ovechkin remained composed, while the Capitals dedicated themselves to helping him reach this milestone.
The much-awaited goal finally came halfway through the Capitals’ 77th game out of 82, bringing a collective sigh of relief. “Lately, we were on the edge,” explained Carbery. “After investing countless hours strategizing on ways to secure his next goal, it’s immensely rewarding for us to celebrate this special moment.”
The NHL and the Capitals assembled a video montage showcasing legends from various sports, like Simone Biles, Michael Phelps, Tom Brady, LeBron James, and Derek Jeter, congratulating Ovechkin, highlighting this achievement surpassing hockey — and even sports. After dawn broke in Moscow on Monday, Vladimir Putin offered his congratulations.
“It’s great for the game,” Ovechkin noted. “Being part of this moment brings happiness and celebration, and I’m grateful to partake in it.” Longtime teammate John Carlson, who assisted in goal No. 894 on Friday night, acknowledged that he and the Capitals were simply along for the journey. In truth, everyone watching felt the same, as Ovechkin provided an unforgettable ride filled with joy and excitement.