“Going To Be in History Forever”: Alexander Ovechkin Plays Down GOAT Status As He Nears Wayne Gretzky and Gordie Howe’s NHL Feat

With every passing game, Alexander Ovechkin is getting one step closer to achieving the greatest feat in the NHL. Currently, Ovechkin ranks no. 3 on the all-time career goals list with 800 goals to his name. It won’t be long before he surpasses Gordie Howe to take the second spot.

Further, it only goes to say that it is just a matter of time before the Great 8 would break the record the Great One has held for more than three decades. This is going to be a phenomenal moment in NHL history simply because of the fact that Wayne Gretzky has been sitting on top of the list since 1989. Recently, Alexander Ovechkin appeared in an exclusive interview with Howe’s son, Max Howe on NHL on TNT.

Alexander Ovechkin talks about making history

The Russian player talked about the feat he intends to slowly but surely achieve. “It’s always a special moment when you tie or pass Gordie Howe or Wayne Gretzky or some (other) big names. Just history and your name’s going to be in history forever,” said the 37-year-old star.

He further added that he felt lucky to be able to play for as long as he has been playing. Further, he credited the exceptional players he has played with. Without them, he believes, he wouldn’t have been able to achieve the feat. “Being connected with those great players is pretty special,” he added.

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While talking about Ovechkin breaking Howe’s record, Max said that he will be there to witness the historic moment unfold before his eyes. Showing the sportspersonship that his father thrived for, he further added that his father would have done the same had he been still alive. When Gretzky broke Howe’s record, Gordie Howe was present in the stadium cheering for him. Nevertheless, Max Howe confirms to follow in his father’s footsteps.

Similarities between Howe and Ovechkin

In the interview, the three gentlemen were able to draw a parallel between Howe’s and Ovechkin’s styles and careers. El Bashir pointed out that both players were bigger than the average men in the NHL. He added that Ovechkin and Howe were both tough on the ice but a softball if one meets them outside.

Another thing Tarik El Bashir pointed out was the loyalty of the two players. The two players stuck with their original teams throughout their careers. Gordie Howe played for the Detroit Red Wings for 26 years, which comprised 25 seasons. Since the beginning of his NHL career, Alexander Ovechkin has stayed with Washington Capitals.

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On that note, it would be exciting to watch how long Ovechkin would take to eventually surpass the Great One. What interesting times we live in!