“Not Even a Question”: As Alexander Ovechkin Created History, Wayne Gretzky Once Opened Up on the Prospects of His Goal Record Getting Broken

Wayne Gretzky dominated the sport of Ice Hockey for three decades. The legendary hockey player made his pro debut in 1977, and by the time he retired in 1999, Gretzky had broken nearly every record. “The Great One” retired after setting 61 career records, including the most points, most assists, and most goals. However, it seems one player might break one of those three records.

NHL player Alex Ovechkin already tied Wayne Gretzky, scoring 50 goals in a single season. Now Ovechkin has surpassed another Gretzky record, scoring 403 road goals. While Ovechkin continues to create history, Gretzky spoke about the prospect of losing another career record to Alex.

Wayne Gretzky is a fan of Alexander Ovechkin

While Gretzky retired from playing ice hockey over two decades ago, he has remained close to the sport. Currently, Gretzky works as an analyst for “NHL on TNT”. Last year the Edmonton Oilers legend revealed he believes Alex will eventually break his all-time goals record. “It’s not even a question that he will pass me, and I think it’s great,” Wayne told The New York Times.

“There is no doubt that ultimately he will break the record,” said the NHL legend. The ice hockey legend said Ovechkin has the talent but has to avoid injuries. “He just has to be relaxed, and it’s going to take two, three, four years,” added Wayne.

Some may feel outdone when their record gets broken. However, Wayne is the opposite. “I’m just one of his biggest fans and it’s only good for the game if he can break the record,” he said. However, Wayne is more than a fan. Gretzky revealed when Alex doesn’t score for a few games. Wayne sends him encouraging texts to help lift Ovechkin’s morale.

READ MORE: “Always Gonna Miss the National Hockey League”: Wayne Gretzky Left His Fans in Tears With Emotional Retirement Tribute in 1999

Alexander Ovechkin has nearly scored 800 goals so far. The Washington Capitals left winger is now in third place for most goals scored in NHL history. He is only eight goals shy of Gordie Howe’s 801 goals record.

Tied with Wayne Gretzky

Ovechkin has surpassed “The Great One” on away goals and is nipping at the heels of Gretzky’s 894 goals record. However, he is also on the cusp of surpassing two hockey legends. Alex Ovechkin has scored 50 goals or more for nine seasons, tying Gretzky and Mike Bossy’s records.

If Ovechkin scores 50 or more goals in a single season in the future, he’ll set a record, surpassing two NHL legends and creating history.

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How long will Alex take to break Gretzky’s 894 goals record? What do you think?