Ovechkin Aims for Historic Goal Record vs. Oilers

ARLINGTON, Va. — Alexander Ovechkin is poised to continue his pursuit of Wayne Gretzky‘s all-time goals record as the Washington Capitals host the Edmonton Oilers on Sunday. The game is set to begin at 1 p.m. ET and is the second match in a back-to-back for both teams.

Ovechkin, who has tallied 26 goals this season, currently sits at 879 career goals. He needs just 16 more to surpass Gretzky’s milestone of 894 goals, with 26 regular-season games still to play. The 37-year-old forward was held off the scoresheet during the Capitals’ 8-3 victory over the Pittsburgh Penguins on Saturday but has been a significant contributor to his team’s offensive efforts.

The Capitals hold a 37-11-8 record and are currently in second place in the NHL standings, just one point behind the Winnipeg Jets. Meanwhile, the Oilers come into the matchup with a 34-18-4 record and will look to rebound after a 6-3 loss to the Philadelphia Flyers, where Leon Draisaitl posted a goal and an assist.

Draisaitl, leading the NHL in goals with 41 this season, is on a point streak that could extend to eight games if he continues his scoring form. He currently has 85 points in 56 games. As the Oilers embark on a five-game road trip, they are searching for consistency following a mixed string of results.

In another game on the same day, the New York Rangers, who face the Pittsburgh Penguins at 3:30 p.m. ET, are also looking to turn around their fortunes after suffering an 8-2 loss to the Buffalo Sabres in their last outing. The Rangers currently sit at 27-25-4, while the Penguins, at 23-26-9, are struggling to stay in playoff contention.

Capitals coach Peter Laviolette praised Ovechkin’s leadership ahead of the match, stating, “He brings a level of intensity and focus that drives our team. Every time he steps on the ice, he’s a threat.” Laviolette’s acknowledgment of Ovechkin’s potential further emphasizes the anticipation surrounding the game.

Fans can watch Ovechkin’s chase for history through the NHL’s dedicated platform, NHL.com/GR8Chase, which showcases classic milestones and highlights from his career.

“It’s exciting to see him closing in on that record; it shows how dedicated he is to the game,” said general manager Brian MacLellan.

As these teams gear up for the weekend matchups, the stakes are high for all involved, with playoff positions on the line and records in jeopardy.