An emotional Alex Ovechkin celebrates on the ice after tying Wayne Gretzky’s record

The game had not even started that the hat trick watch was already on for Washington Capitals’ Alex Ovechkin against the visiting Chicago Blackhawks on Friday night.

Less than four minutes into the first period, Ovechkin beat Hawks goalie Spencer Knight and scored 893rd career goal, and was two away from breaking Wayne Gretzky’s NHL record of 894. This was also his 40th tally of the 2024-25 season.

In the third period, as the Capitals were attempting to get the lead back from the Blackhawks, Ovechkin knew what needed to be done.

After his teammate Dylan Strome tied the game at 3, Ovi scored the go-ahead goal, tying Wayne Gretzky for the most goals in NHL history.

As he celebrated with the crowd in Washington, Ovechkin emotionally kissing his glove and points to the sky in honor of his late brother Sergei , who he named his first child after. Two years ago, his father Mikhail passed away. 

He then blew kisses at his wife and family in the crowd.

Such an amazing scene to watch.

Watch it all below:

Now, Ovechkin is a shot away from passing Wayne Gretzky for the NHL goals record!