Alex Ovechkin, the Washington Capitals’ electrifying superstar, has authored one of the most legendary careers in NHL history. Selected first overall in the 2004 NHL Draft, he burst onto the scene with a spectacular 52-goal, 106-point rookie season in 2005-06, capturing the Calder Trophy and launching a career defined by relentless scoring and unforgettable moments. Known for his devastating one-timer from the left faceoff circle, the ‘Great 8’ has overwhelmed goaltenders for over two decades with a combination of raw power, precision, and intensity. He holds the NHL record with nine Maurice “Rocket” Richard Trophies as the league’s top goal scorer, along with three Hart Trophies as league MVP. In 2018, he led the Capitals to their first Stanley Cup in franchise history, earning the Conn Smythe Trophy as playoff MVP.
For years, Ovechkin has pursued the seemingly unreachable—Wayne Gretzky’s all-time goals record of 894. Entering the April 4, 2025 game against the Chicago Blackhawks just two goals shy of tying ‘The Great One,’ Ovechkin wasted no time igniting the crowd with a first-period goal to move within one. Then, with the game tied in the third period and the Capitals on the power play, the moment arrived. From his familiar spot in the left circle, Ovechkin blasted home the game-winner—goal number 894—matching Gretzky’s mark and tying the most prolific goal-scoring career the NHL has ever seen. The tally also made history in another category, as he passed Jaromir Jagr for the most game-winning goals in league history.
This highlight captures Ovechkin standing on the doorstep of immortality—tied with Gretzky, with the next goal set to officially crown him as the NHL’s all-time goal king. A career built on passion, perseverance, and pure goal-scoring brilliance now sits at the edge of the ultimate milestone.