Ovechkin Scores 887th Goal, Approaches Gretzky’s Record

SAN JOSE, Calif. — Alex Ovechkin scored his 887th career NHL goal on Saturday, moving within eight goals of breaking Wayne Gretzky’s all-time record of 894 goals. The milestone goal came with 9:06 left in the third period, as Ovechkin redirected a shot from Martin Fehervary past San Jose Sharks goaltender Georgi Romanov, helping the Washington Capitals secure a 5-1 victory.

With this goal, Ovechkin became the 182nd different goaltender he has scored against in his illustrious career, extending his NHL record. The win marked the Capitals’ sixth in seven games and improved their season record to 44-15-8 with a points percentage of .716. They remain firmly in first place in the Metropolitan Division.

“He’s been passing to me too much,” said teammate Dylan Strome. “We’ve got to get him the puck more. He’s doing all the little things right. And nice for ‘Tin (Martin Fehervary) to find him in the slot there. I mean, you could just see the crowd. Not much left to say at this point. I think just hopefully he can get a couple on this homestand here and inch closer and closer. We’re all excited, obviously. And it’s pretty cool.”

Ovechkin, now in his 19th NHL season, has scored 34 goals this season, including 18 in the third period, which leads the league. His current pace places him on track to tie Gretzky’s record on April 6 against the New York Islanders and potentially break it on April 12 at Columbus.

In addition to Ovechkin’s goal, other Capitals contributors included Dylan Strome, Tom Wilson, and Trevor van Riemsdyk, each scoring in the match. Goaltender Logan Thompson made 17 saves to help secure the win for Washington.

The Capitals jumped out to a commanding lead early, scoring three goals in the first period for the fifth time this season. They possess the best road record in the NHL at 23-8-2, and they have also won 10 of their last 13 road games.

As the Capitals prepare for their next match against the Detroit Red Wings, they remain optimistic about their chances to extend their division lead over the Carolina Hurricanes, who trail by 12 points.