Goal! Alex Ovechkin breaks the record for most goals scored in a career (895), previously set by Wayne Gretzky (894) in 1994. 

Alex Ovechkin is a Russian hockey player, who plays for the Washington Capitals. He has been playing for the National Hockey League (NHL) since 2004. Being the first pick of the first round of the draft in 2004 made him an all-star from the beginning. 

“What he did was very monumental. Since Gretzky is the greatest hockey player of all time, it is great that Ovechkin broke his record. He is older, so it is more surprising,” says Zoey Zeballos, ’26.

The goal came in a power play during the second period. Ovechkin is known for scoring from the left circle, and he did so with his record-breaking goal. Ovechkin celebrates with a diving slide on the ice, surrounded by his teammates. 

Gretzky attended the game with his family and was a part of the post-game celebration. Ovechkin was awarded the puck and a picture to commemorate his moment. Ovechkin took his jersey off after the game to send it to the Hall of Fame. 

Number eight received a congratulatory video from fellow athletes and stars such as Katie Ladecky, Derek Jeter, and Michael Jordan. His speech was drowned out by the cheers of his fans. 

The game was an away game for the Capitals against the New York Islanders, with the Capitals losing one to four. Technically a loss, the game felt like a win as Ovechkin had immense support from his teammates, fans, and other hockey fans as well. 

“Ovechkin has been working toward this his entire career. It is nice to see him achieve it close to the end of his career. He is a great shooter from the left circle and a great player,” expressed Sophie Best, ’26

Playing for twenty years creates a door for any player to become a star. It only happens with hard work and dedication, and a love for the game. Alex Ovechkin will be one of the greatest hockey players of all time, as he continues to set the standard for rookies and veterans following in his footsteps.