The time has almost come for the world to witness one of the longest-standing records in the NHL getting broken. The Capitals take on the Islanders later today, as Alex Ovechkin sets his sights on breaking the record for the most goals scored in the league, currently held by the legendary Wayne Gretzky. With the two tied at 894 goals apiece, it is just a matter of time before Ovechkin overtakes the Great One. Ahead of this record-breaking feat, an interesting comparison between the duo’s ages was made.

Gretzky called time on his illustrious career on April 18, 1999, when he was 38 years old. “It’s obvious that today, I am officially retired, and Sunday will be my last game. I never wavered, I never budged — I know in my heart I’m making the right decision,” he said in the April 16th press conference where he announced his retirement. Indeed, he had left behind a massive void to fill in the hockey world, and fans were saddened to see him leave. Little could they have known that one of their icon’s unassailable records may in fact prove to be assailable.

But then came Ovechkin, who would follow on the path of Gretzky in achieving greatness. Matching his goal-scoring spree, Ovechkin is currently 39 years old, making him just a year older than Gretzky was at the time of his retirement. While Ovechkin has been matching the Great One from strength to strength, there are some particular departments where the two have outclassed one another.

During his illustrious career, Gretzky notched up an incredible 1963 assists, which denotes why he was one of the best creative players the sport has ever seen. On the other hand, Ovechkin has only 724 assists to his name. Meanwhile, Ovechkin’s skill on the power play is worth talking about. While he has 324 power-play goals, Gretzky recorded 204 power-play goals in his entire NHL career.

Although both Ovechkin and Gretzky had varied strengths, it all comes down to this day when the hockey world awaits Ovechkin breaking one of Gretzky’s most iconic records that has stood for 26 years. Meanwhile, Gretzky is set to be in attendance during the Washington Capitals vs. New York Islanders game in anticipation of the decisive goal. Ahead of that historic moment, the Great One was all praise of the Capitals star.

Wayne Gretzky can’t stop praising Alex Ovechkin

Earlier this week, Ovechkin scored 2 goals against the Blackhawks to go on level with Gretzky’s record of 894. The Great One was in attendance there and was impressed by Ovechkin’s goal-scoring prowess. After Ovechkin scored the goal, Gretzky appeared on the broadcast and lauded Ovechkin.

Gretzky said, “This is what the game is all about. Alex has been great for the game, great for Washington, great for his own country. It’s wonderful. I’m very proud of him. I’m proud of what I accomplished, and that’s what makes our game so wonderful: the great athletes that we have and the wonderful people that they are.”

In fact, after goal no. 894, Gretzky and Ovechkin sat down for a joint press conference postgame, where Ovechkin went on to thank the Great One for his kindness and support. Gretzky went on to further express his support, saying, “He’s encouraged so many kids in his home country of Russia to play the sport of hockey. He’s been nothing but a champion, and I’m so proud that we’re tied.”

While Alex Ovechkin is just a goal away from breaking Gretzky’s record, it is unlikely that he would stop just at this. “You’re going to get 900, don’t worry about it,” as Gretzky once texted him. The Capitals are high-flying this season, with a spot in the Stanley Cup Playoffs already booked. Indeed, they will hope that Ovechkin’s record will propel their winning momentum all the way to lifting the Stanley Cup come summer.