The chase for Wayne Gretzky’s all-time goal-scoring record is back on track for Alex Ovechkin. After missing 16 games due to a fractured fibula, the Capitals’ captain returned to practice on Friday. He’ll resume his spot on the top line with Dylan Strome and Aliaksei Protas. This sets the stage for Ovechkin’s return to the lineup tonight. The Capitals face off against the Toronto Maple Leafs. The word is that he will play.
Before his injury, Ovechkin was on a tear. He was leading the NHL with 15 goals in just 18 games, pushing his career total to 868 goals. With only 27 goals separating him from Gretzky’s legendary mark of 894, the 39-year-old sniper is primed to continue his historic pursuit. Ovechkin has enjoyed significant success in Toronto, scoring 24 goals in 29 career games at Scotiabank Arena. As he takes the ice once again, don’t be surprised if Ovechkin picks up right where he left off. He’s moving closer to rewriting the record books.
Wayne Gretzky Cheers on Ovechkin’s Record Chase: A Class Act
Ovechkin’s pursuit of Wayne Gretzky’s all-time goal-scoring record has sparked debate among fans and analysts. However, one person who is fully behind it is Gretzky himself. The Great One, known for his class and humility, has consistently expressed support for Ovechkin as he chases down the record. Gretzky understands that records are made to be broken. Rather than feeling threatened by Ovechkin’s quest, he’s rooting for the Capitals’ star to achieve it.
Gretzky’s perspective on his records is refreshingly generous. He recognizes that his achievements have stood the test of time, but he also knows that hockey is an evolving sport, and others will eventually surpass his milestones. As Ovechkin continues to climb the ranks, Gretzky is more than ready to be the first to congratulate him when that moment comes. In a world where athletes can sometimes be caught up in rivalry and competition, Gretzky’s sportsmanship and support of Ovechkin only reinforce why he’s considered the greatest of all time—not just for his records, but for his character.