Alex Ovechkin set an NHL record with his 18th 30-goal season, surpassing Mike Gartner, and his performance helped snap the Washington Capitals’ six-game losing streak, positioning them for a playoff spot, as he aims to break Wayne Gretzky’s all-time goals record.
Getty Images captured a moment for the ages.
Alex Ovechkin made history on Tuesday. He scored his 30th goal of the 2023-24 season, setting an NHL record. With this achievement, Ovechkin surpassed Mike Gartner’s 17 seasons of 30 goals. It was a momentous occasion.
The goal came late in the second period, at the 19:52 mark. This wasn’t just any goal; it clinched a 2-1 victory over the Detroit Red Wings. “Oshie made a tremendous play on the blue line,” Ovechkin recounted. “And there I was, in a 2-on-1 situation.” He knew time was running out in the period. “I just tried to shoot and hoped for the best. And it went in. I’ll take it.”
Right after this historic goal, the Capitals shared a video. It featured Gartner himself, congratulating Ovechkin. A classy move for a significant milestone.
Ovechkin’s journey this season was nothing short of dramatic. With only nine goals in the first 44 games, his surge post-All-Star break was unexpected. He’s since scored 22 goals, averaging 0.68 goals per game. This turnaround was crucial. It ended a six-game losing streak for Washington, propelling them into the No. 2 Wild Card spot in the Eastern Conference playoff race.
Now, at nearly 39 years old, Ovechkin eyes Gretzky’s all-time goals record. He’s just 42 goals shy. Given his track record, breaking this record next season is within the realm of possibility.
With the regular season winding down, Ovechkin and the Capitals are on the hunt. They’re chasing a playoff spot, with at least four games left to make their mark. The journey continues.
