Alex Ovechkin is just one goal away from becoming the greatest goal-scorer in NHL history. The Washington Capitals star tied Wayne Gretzky’s all-time record of 894 goals with a two-goal performance against Chicago on Friday night.
He could’ve broken the record right then and there. But when presented with an empty net late in the game, Ovechkin passed up the shot.
“Let’s wait,” he said after the game, showing the kind of respect for the game that’s defined his 19-year NHL career.
Now hockey fans everywhere are holding their breath for Sunday’s game against the New York Islanders, where Ovechkin could make history.
Even at 39 years old, the Russian superstar isn’t slowing down. Friday’s performance gave him his 14th 40-goal season – that’s two more than Gretzky ever had.
The Islanders might be nervous about their place in history. Ovechkin loves playing against them, having scored 44 goals in 71 games versus New York.
The historic moment could come as early as Sunday at 12:30 p.m. ET, when the Caps visit UBS Arena in New York. The game will air on TNT and truTV, with streaming available on fubo.
If it doesn’t happen Sunday, Ovechkin still has plenty of chances left. The Capitals have six games remaining in their regular season schedule.
But something feels right about Sunday. The matinee game. The New York stage. One of hockey’s greatest players on the verge of passing “The Great One” himself.
The only question is: Will this be the day Alex Ovechkin becomes the NHL’s all-time goal king?
