Wayne Gretzky is set to attend a significant NHL game in Washington on Friday night, where Alex Ovechkin stands just two goals away from tying Gretzky's long-standing record and three goals from surpassing it. The highly anticipated matchup features the Washington Capitals facing off against the Chicago Blackhawks as Ovechkin approaches the milestone of 895 career goals, previously held by Gretzky.
Following the Capitals’ morning skate, Ovechkin expressed his excitement about Gretzky's presence, stating, “It’s great. He’s been supportive all the time to me. It’s a fun time right now. We’ll see what’s going to happen, but right now it’s all attention to a hockey game. It’s a pretty cool moment.” Ovechkin scored his 892nd goal during a game in Raleigh, North Carolina, earlier in the week, making him just a hat trick away from breaking the legendary record that has stood for years.
Capitals winger Tom Wilson, who shares a hometown with Gretzky in Ontario, emphasized the moment’s significance, saying, “It’s bigger than the game right now. It’s bigger than hockey. It’s the ‘Great One.’ I mean, no one would have ever thought that would happen.” The excitement around Ovechkin's pursuit has been palpable throughout the season, marking an unprecedented moment for players and fans alike.
The last time a player was in this position was 31 years ago when Gretzky himself surpassed Gordie Howe's record of 801 career goals. Now, Gretzky is present to support Ovechkin as he aims to set a new record, similarly to how Howe supported Gretzky on his journey to 802 goals in 1994. Dylan Strome, a center for the Capitals, remarked on the unique relationship between Ovechkin and Gretzky, noting the latter’s lasting impact on hockey and Canada, which adds to the excitement of the approaching record-breaking event.
The underway anticipation surrounding Ovechkin's chase has been officially dubbed the “GR8 chase,” with Gretzky’s attendance serving as an integral element in this narrative. Retired defenseman Jason Demers, now an analyst for NHL Network, highlighted how Gretzky’s support showcases the close-knit community and respect among players in the sport. “Having Wayne be there and support Ovechkin, who’s going to basically break his record and take him out of the record books, it’s just wild to think about the support that guys have for one another," he stated, emphasizing the camaraderie that makes hockey unique.
Overall, with Gretzky watching in person as Ovechkin nears breaking the all-time goal record, the hockey world is captivated by what could be a historic moment in sports history. The atmosphere is charged with emotions as players, fans, and the league come together to witness this unprecedented achievement. The event serves as a reminder of the deep connections within the sport and the profound legacy Gretzky has created, which now stands on the brink of transformation.
