Dylan Strome wasn`t even born when Wayne Gretzky surpassed Gordie Howe`s record. In 1994, Gretzky scored his 802nd NHL goal, becoming the league`s all-time leading scorer.
Strome, now a center for the Washington Capitals, has watched the replay of Gretzky`s milestone goal countless times. He recalls McSorley`s pass, Gretzky`s run, and the ensuing celebration.
Now, another seemingly unbreakable record – Gretzky`s final tally of 894 goals – is within reach of Capitals superstar Alex Ovechkin. The team is not only having a great season but also relishing being part of this historic chase.
Ovechkin is just six goals away from Gretzky, with 12 games left in the regular season. Despite missing 16 games due to injury, he has scored an impressive 36 goals in 55 games this season.
The 39-year-old Ovechkin, known for his incredible shot, is on the verge of achieving something truly special.
Earlier this week, Strome expressed the team`s excitement, saying it`s hard to imagine what will happen and how it will feel when Ovechkin breaks the record.
The anticipation around the team is growing.
Tom Wilson, a Capitals winger, described the atmosphere as a “rock star tour.”
Wilson noted that Ovechkin, who scored his 889th goal in a recent game, remains a focused captain, leading the top-ranked team while chasing this milestone, which started with him being 41 goals behind Gretzky at the season`s beginning.
Wilson is incredibly proud to witness this journey. He believes everyone will share these stories with future generations. He praised Ovechkin as a great friend and teammate, emphasizing the fun of being part of this experience.
Wilson acknowledged the immense pressure on Ovechkin, stating that this is bigger than just hockey. He admires Ovechkin`s ability to handle it while continuing to contribute to the team.
Coach Spencer Carbery admitted to contemplating the historical significance of this moment in quiet moments, realizing how it will be remembered.
Carbery feels the excitement on the bench and in every arena when Ovechkin touches the puck as he gets closer to the record.
Jakob Chychrun, a new Capital, described Ovechkin as unexpectedly wonderful, a beloved and lively presence in the group. Having watched Ovechkin growing up, Chychrun is thrilled to play with and get to know him.
Ovechkin`s pursuit of hockey history has energized the Capitals, who lead the league standings with 103 points.
Wilson reiterated that everyone wants to be part of this. Each Ovechkin goal feels like an accomplishment and creates a moment that everyone will remember.
Strome mentioned that every player dreams of assisting on the record-breaking goal, hoping to be part of a similar moment to McSorley`s assist to Gretzky.
Strome concluded that every goal Ovechkin scores now is history, and it`s exciting to be part of it.
Ovechkin is on the verge of achieving something once deemed impossible, and his teammates are cherishing every moment of this journey.
Strome added that Ovechkin simply loves scoring goals, which might explain his approach to Gretzky`s record.
In conclusion, they are all “happy to be along for the ride.”
