Ovechkin Eyes Gretzky’s Record as Playoff Picture Intensifies

ARLINGTON, Va. — With just 17 days remaining in the NHL regular season, Washington Capitals forward Alex Ovechkin is closing in on Wayne Gretzky’s all-time goal record. After scoring his 890th goal last Sunday, Ovechkin now needs just five more to surpass Gretzky’s legendary mark of 894 goals.

The race for the Stanley Cup playoffs continues to heat up, with several teams poised to clinch berths as the season approaches its climax. As of April 1, playoff clinching scenarios have sharpened for multiple franchises, adding to the suspense of the final stretch.

The Carolina Hurricanes could secure a playoff spot if either the Montreal Canadiens lose to the Florida Panthers or if the Columbus Blue Jackets fall to the Nashville Predators. The Toronto Maple Leafs face a similar situation, needing the same results to guarantee their postseason participation.

The Tampa Bay Lightning can clinch their playoff position tonight by defeating the New York Islanders, along with getting additional help from the Canadiens and Blue Jackets losing. Similarly, the Florida Panthers must win against the Canadiens in regulation to secure their playoff future.

Also in contention, the Vegas Golden Knights aim to clinch their position against the Edmonton Oilers. However, they could still qualify even with a single point if the Calgary Flames lose to Utah Hockey Club or if the St. Louis Blues drop their game against the Detroit Red Wings in regulation.

Tonight’s packed schedule features 10 games, each laden with playoff significance. The match between the Capitals and Boston Bruins (7 p.m. ET; MNMT, NESN) will be notable as Ovechkin looks to inch closer to his historic goal tally.

The Capitals currently sit at 47-17-9, trailing the Winnipeg Jets by just three points for the Presidents’ Trophy, while the Bruins fight to stay alive in the playoff chase with a record of 30-35-9.

The Canadiens, having recently edged the Panthers 4-2, will seek to maintain their slim lead over playoff rivals such as the Rangers. “Winning is crucial at this stage every single game matters,” said Canadiens forward Cole Caufield. “We’ve put ourselves right back in the mix with points on the board.”

Connecting the ongoing battles across the league, the ligation of each game provides the teams with a chance to solidify their chances, and players like Ovechkin promise to bring excitement as records loom on the horizon. The race is far from done and fans are eagerly watching as the drama unfolds.