March 15, 2025: Capitals vs. Sharks

In a thrilling matchup on March 15, 2025, the Washington Capitals triumphed over the San Jose Sharks with a resounding 5-1 victory. This game saw the legendary Alex Ovechkin mark a significant milestone, scoring his 887th career goal and edging ever closer to Wayne Gretzky's all-time NHL record of 894 goals.

Ovechkin displayed his exceptional skills by deflecting a shot from teammate Martin Fehervary past Sharks goalie Georgi Romanov, with just over nine minutes remaining in the third period. With this goal, Ovechkin became the first player in history to score against an astonishing 182 different goaltenders, further solidifying his legacy in the sport.

At 39 years old, Ovechkin demonstrates no signs of slowing down, currently boasting 34 goals for the season. If he maintains this pace, he could very well surpass Gretzky's legendary mark before the current season concludes, a feat that many fans once deemed unattainable.

In addition to his goal, Ovechkin provided an assist on Dylan Strome's opening score, setting the tone for the Capitals’ offensive dominance. The team, having recovered from a recent 3-0 loss to the Los Angeles Kings, is now on a surge, winning six of their last seven games.

Joining Ovechkin on the scoresheet were Aliaksei Protas, Taylor Raddysh, and Trevor van Riemsdyk, the latter ending a long drought of 145 games without a goal. Goaltender Logan Thompson proved pivotal, making 19 saves to help secure the win.

For the Sharks, Macklin Celebrini was the lone scorer, attempting to spark his team after their recent victory over the Chicago Blackhawks. However, San Jose struggled throughout, particularly in the first period, where they were heavily outshot 17-3.

In a historic note, Ovechkin's assist on Strome's goal marked his 776th career point on the road; one more point will see him pass Gordie Howe for eighth all-time in road points.

Looking ahead, the Capitals will be hosting the Detroit Red Wings next Tuesday, while the Sharks prepare to battle the Carolina Hurricanes on Thursday night. With Ovechkin nearing his goal of breaking Gretzky's record, the excitement around Capitals games is higher than ever, drawing fans and analysts alike into a frenzy over what could become one of hockey's most historic seasons.

Stay tuned as the race for NHL history unfolds!