Ovechkin’s Goal Record Chase Highlights NHL’s Busy Saturday Slate

ARLINGTON, Va. — The NHL resumes action on Saturday with a packed schedule of 14 games, featuring high-stakes matchups and the continued pursuit of hockey history by Washington Capitals captain Alex Ovechkin.

The Capitals (36-11-8) will face the Pittsburgh Penguins (23-25-9) at 3 p.m. ET, with Ovechkin needing just 16 goals in the final 27 games of the season to break Wayne Gretzky’s all-time record of 894 goals. Ovechkin has scored 26 goals in 39 games so far this season.

“It’s going to be tough to get it this year, but if anyone can do it, I think it’s him,” said Capitals center Dylan Strome.

The Penguins will be looking to spoil Ovechkin’s historic chase, especially with Sidney Crosby back in the lineup after participating in the 4 Nations Face-Off. Crosby, with 92 points in 71 games, is a crucial part of Pittsburgh’s playoff ambitions.

Meanwhile, the Minnesota Wild (33-19-4) take on the Detroit Red Wings (28-22-5) at 12:30 p.m. ET. Under new head coach Todd McLellan, the Red Wings are 15-5-1 and currently hold the second wild card spot in the Eastern Conference. They aim to solidify their playoff hopes against a Wild team that sits third in the Central Division.

“We’re just trying to take it game by game,” said Red Wings forward Dylan Larkin. “The postseason is in sight, but we must keep winning.”

In another highlight, the Carolina Hurricanes (33-19-4) visit the Toronto Maple Leafs (33-20-2) at 7 p.m. ET. Both teams feature stars like Mitch Marner and Auston Matthews, who are crucial for their scoring depth. “We need to focus on getting that top spot in the Atlantic,” said Maple Leafs forward Matthews.

Ovechkin’s scoring chase has energized the Capitals, who have points in their previous six games. With home advantage critical in the playoff race, both Washington and its opponents are looking to build momentum.

Capitals coach Spencer Carbery believes Ovechkin is capable of achieving greatness this season. “I think he’s highly motivated,” said Carbery. “This stretch will be his best hockey of the year.”

Moreover, Ovechkin’s illustrious journey toward Gretzky’s record has inspired not just his teammates but the entire league. “It’s fantastic for him, and it’s great for the game,” said Capitals defenseman John Carlson.

The anticipation builds as the NHL’s regular season unfolds. With captivating storylines and competitive matchups, fans are in for a thrilling day of hockey.

For those keeping an eye on the playoff picture, the Red Wings are closely followed by the Columbus Blue Jackets and Boston Bruins, who sit just outside of the playoff bubble. It is shaping up to be an exciting final stretch of the season as teams vie for a chance at the Stanley Cup.