Alex Ovechkin Refuses Empty-Net Goal to Break Wayne Gretzky’s Record

Alex Ovechkin, the Washington Capitals' star forward, has made headlines not just for his scoring prowess but for his sportsmanship. In a recent game, Ovechkin had the opportunity to break Wayne Gretzky's all-time NHL goal record with an empty-net goal but chose to pass on the chance. This decision has sparked widespread admiration and discussion across the hockey community.

Ovechkin, who is now just one goal away from surpassing Gretzky's record of 894 goals, confirmed his decision in a post-game interview. 'I want to break the record the right way, not with an empty net,' Ovechkin stated, emphasizing his respect for the game and its legends. His next opportunity to achieve this historic milestone will be in the Capitals' upcoming game against the Pittsburgh Penguins.

Fans and analysts alike have praised Ovechkin's integrity, with many drawing parallels to the ethos of sportsmanship that defines the NHL. As the hockey world watches eagerly, Ovechkin's pursuit of the record continues to captivate and inspire.

• Alex Ovechkin
• NHL
• Washington Capitals
• Wayne Gretzky

Detailed Alex Ovechkin ties Wayne Gretzky's NHL goal record

Ovechkin passes on empty-net opportunity for record-breaking goal

18 hours ago

- nhl

With Gretzky on hand, Ovechkin scores 893rd

1 day ago

- espn

Alex Ovechkin and Wayne Gretzky are tied at 894 goals. Ovechkin can break the record Sunday

13 hours ago

- click2houston

Alex Ovechkin ties Wayne Gretzky's all-time record of 894 NHL goals

21 hours ago

- bbc

Alex Ovechkin ties Wayne Gretzky’s NHL record with 894th goal

21 hours ago

- theguardian

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Who broke Wayne Gretzky's record?

WASHINGTON – Alex Ovechkin has joined Wayne Gretzky atop the NHL goals list. Ovechkin scored his 893rd and 894th goals to tie Gretzky for the most in League history in a 5-3 win against the Chicago Blackhawks at Capital One Arena on Friday.

What year did Gretzky break his goal record?

Gretzky first claimed the goals record in 1994, when he passed Gordie Howe's old record of 801. Gretzky then played for five more seasons, finally retiring in 1999 with a career total of 894 goals.

Will Ovechkin break Gretzky's record?

He has no intention of breaking the record on an empty net. Ovechkin did become the all-time leader in game-winning goals, though, as his 136th broke a tie with Jaromir Jagr for most all-time. Gretzky retired with 91.

How many games has Ovechkin played compared to Gretzky?

Ovechkin caught Gretzky with one fewer game played, hitting 894 in 1,486 games against Gretzky's 1,487. However, Gretzky scored his 894th goal in his 1,479th game.

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