51 more goals and Ovechkin will match Gretzky’s record of 894 goals

Alexander Ovechkin helped the Washington Capitals to a two-goal victory over the Calgary Flames and once again approached Wayne Gretzky’s record for most goals scored (894). He also scored at least 20 goals for the 19th straight season.

Ovechkin pulls Washington into the playoffs

The battle for the playoffs is coming to a head. And while Pastrnak’s Boston is already assured of its place in the playoffs, there is a big battle going on elsewhere for the last available spots. In the Eastern Conference, it’s all about the Philadelphia Flyers, Tampa Bay Lightning, Washington Capitals and Detroit Red Wings.

But even the New York Islanders are not without a chance. After Monday’s games, the Washington team has improved. Alexander Ovechkin scored twice in the game against the Calgary Flames to celebrate his 19th straight season of scoring at least 20 goals. The Capitals won 5:2.

“It’s unreal! He’s still a world-class player and a future Hall of Famer! A lot has been said about him, but he just keeps on rocking. Even at the age of 38. It’s fun to watch and be there,” said his offensive teammate Dylan Strome after the game.

Ovechkin is currently 51 goals short of reaching Wayne Gretzky’s “unattainable” 894 career goals.

“We’re all rooting for him in this hunt. And we’re happy when he hits. They were two super-important hits today. And we’re glad that he was the one that got through,” added another forward, Hendrix Lapierre.

The West Division is also packed, with teams fighting for playoff spots either through divisional standings or the wild card. Either way, three teams in the Central Division have already reached 90 points, a mark that brings them significantly closer to the playoffs.

Six teams, three from the Pacific Division and three from the Central Division – the Edmonton Oilers, Los Angeles Kings, Vegas Golden Knights and St. Louis Blues, Nashville Predators and Minnesota Wild – are fighting for the last spots.

Source: NHL