On April 6, 2025, Alex Ovechkin of the Washington Capitals surpassed Wayne Gretzky’s long-standing NHL record of 894 regular-season goals by scoring his 895th goal. Achieving this milestone in his 1,487th game—matching Gretzky’s pace—Ovechkin secured his place in hockey history while celebrating with his teammates in a remarkable way.
Celebration Marked by Exclusive Hublot Watches for Teammates
Since being the first overall draft pick, Ovechkin has been the cornerstone of the Capitals franchise, guiding them to their first Stanley Cup victory and becoming their all-time leading goal scorer. The record-breaking goal against the New York Islanders was especially meaningful, prompting Ovechkin to reward those around him with personalized gifts.
Lars Eller, Ovechkin’s teammate during their Stanley Cup-winning 2018 season, recalled the gesture on the Coming in Hot Podcast:
“Ovi got Hublot watches for everyone. Customized Hublot watches,”
—Lars Eller
“I think he even got it for trainers and staff members, not just the players,”
—Lars Eller
“That was special. I’ve been fortunate to play a lot of years with Ovi.”
—Lars Eller
Eller praised Ovechkin’s rare talent and persistence, emphasizing the unique combination of skill and determination that drives him.
“He’s just one of a kind, special, unique talent combination of physicality and a shot we might never see again,”
—Lars Eller
“But also a drive to never quit and wanting more and more and more. I think that’s the biggest thing, right?”
—Lars Eller
Addressing Retirement Rumors, Ovechkin Affirms Commitment to the Capitals
Despite speculation fueled by an erroneous email from the Capitals’ ticket office and comments from Ovechkin’s wife, Anastasia, the veteran player dismissed rumors about his retirement or a move back to Russia. At 39 years old and having played only 63 games this season, many expected this to be Ovechkin’s final NHL campaign.
However, Ovechkin clarified the situation, explaining:
“She said maybe we’ll come and play in Russia,”
—Alex Ovechkin
“But it was just a ‘maybe.’ No one mentioned a specific date.”
—Alex Ovechkin
He expressed frustration about how the rumors distorted Anastasia’s words, stating:
“It’s all nonsense that you guys are twisting and putting Nastya in a position where it sounds like she said I’m playing my last NHL season.”
—Alex Ovechkin
On the future of his career, Ovechkin urged patience: “Let’s just wait and see!”
Significance of Ovechkin’s Achievement and Its Impact on His Legacy
Breaking Wayne Gretzky’s record cements Alex Ovechkin’s legacy among hockey’s greatest. His celebration by gifting luxury watches highlights the camaraderie and respect within the Capitals organization. As rumors swirl about his playing future, Ovechkin’s confirmation that he is not rushing to retire brings hope to fans while emphasizing his determination to continue contributing on the ice. The next chapters of his career will be closely watched as he balances family, personal milestones, and team goals.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is Alex Ovechkin smart?
A. Carlson, a defenseman for the Capitals who has played 16 seasons with Ovechkin, said, “He’s incredible. He takes shots you don’t expect and finds space. People often don’t realize how intelligent he is as a player.”