Alexander Ovechkin faces major obstacle as he chases down Wayne Gretzky's goal record

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Axel Williams
October 23, 2024 (10:59 PM)

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Alexander Ovechkin scored a goal for the Washington Capitals earlier tonight, bringing his career total to 855. He is now 39 goals away from tying Wayne Gretzky's scoring record and 40 away from breaking it.

While it seems likely that Ovechkin will hit the mark eventually, The Athletic put out an interesting piece on how there is one big obstacle in Ovi's way right now. That obstacle, of course, is none other than Father Time. Father Time is undefeated and after scoring just 31 goals last season, there is a fear that Ovi could slow down or worse, get injured.

However, it seems like Ovi is not worried about a thing. In fact, in an interview with NHL.com, Ovechkin made it crystal clear that Gretzky is heavily supporting him and wants him to break the record. He even texts him during cold streaks.

" It's great," Ovechkin said. "Even when I have a slump, he will sometimes text me and say, 'Don't worry about it. It will come.' He's on my side."

As for Gretzky himself, he is adamant that the record will get broken. Gretzky even sees a scenario in which Ovi hits the mark this year. However, that is probably a bit ambitious, all things considered.

"It's just a matter of time, whether it's late this year, early next year, whenever. I mean, he's a great player. He's a great goal scorer."

Only time will tell if and when it gets done. However, if there is one thing for certain right now, it is that the fans want to see Ovi succeed. They know he can, and they are heavily rooting for it to happen.

Do you believe that Alexander Ovechkin will eventually beat the record? Let us know in the poll down below and stay tuned to Hockey Unplugged for the latest news and updates from around the hockey world. We will continue to keep you informed on all of your favorite players and teams.

Source: NHL.com
Gretzky believes 'it's just a matter of time' when Ovechkin breaks NHL goal record