WASHINGTON — Alex Ovechkin is one step closer to NHL history after the “Great 8” reached a fitting number in his pursuit of Wayne Gretzky’s career goals record.
Ovechkin scored his 888th goal Thursday night in a 3-2 victory by the Washington Capitals over the Philadelphia Flyers moving seven back of passing Gretzky’s mark of 894 that long seemed unapproachable. It also helped the Capitals earn the win that clinched a playoff berth.
“Again, a big goal at a big time,” Capitals goaltender Charlie Lindgren said. “Credit to Ovi: another big goal and another goal off the mark.”
With just more than five minutes left in the first period, the puck hit linemate Aliaskei Protas in front, and he passed it to Ovechkin. The 39-year-old Russian left wing beat Samuel Ersson for his 35th goal of the season, which is tied for fourth most in the league.
“It was a great play,” Ovechkin said. “Take it and move on.”