The energy inside Capital One Arena was electric on the night Alex Ovechkin etched his name further into NHL history by scoring his 894th career goal, tying Wayne Gretzky’s long-standing all-time record . It was a moment that will live forever in the memories of Caps fans and hockey enthusiasts worldwide. As Ovechkin unleashed his trademark one-timer from the left circle at 6:13 of the third period, the arena erupted in deafening cheers, celebrating not just a goal but a monumental milestone .
THE MOMENT INSIDE CAPITAL ONE ARENA WHEN OVI SCORED NO. 894 😱
(via @NHL) pic.twitter.com/2MB8Yq2pPF
— SportsCenter (@SportsCenter) April 5, 2025
As the puck hit the back of the net, giving Washington a 4-3 lead, Ovechkin dropped to one knee in celebration—a pose synonymous with his greatness—and was immediately mobbed by his teammates . The emotion on his face said it all. This wasn’t just another goal; this was history unfolding before their eyes. Fans chanted “Ovi! Ovi!” as he skated several laps around center ice, raising his arms to encourage even louder cheers .
The atmosphere was nothing short of euphoric. For Capitals fans who have watched Ovechkin dominate for nearly two decades, this felt like the culmination of years of loyalty and admiration. Even opposing team fans couldn’t help but tip their hats to the Russian superstar, as evidenced when Winnipeg crowds recently cheered him while chanting his name after a crucial goal .
What made the moment even more special was its significance beyond personal achievement. With his 894th goal also marking his 136th game-winner, Ovechkin broke a tie with Jaromir Jagr for the most game-winning goals in NHL history . Between the roaring crowd, the emotional reaction from players and coaches, and the palpable sense of witnessing greatness, Capital One Arena became the epicenter of hockey history that night.
Now, with only one goal needed to surpass Gretzky, anticipation is building for what could be the defining moment of Ovechkin’s legendary career .
