In a historic moment on April 6, 2025, Alex Ovechkin claimed his place in NHL history by scoring his 895th career goal, surpassing Wayne Gretzky as the league's all-time leading goal scorer. With a powerful slap shot past Ilya Sorokin of the New York Islanders, Ovechkin brought his Washington Capitals within one goal in a thrilling game at UBS Arena. The crowd erupted in cheers as his teammates celebrated this monumental achievement on the ice, joined by Gretzky, NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman, and Ovechkin's family.

A special on-ice ceremony followed, with Gretzky passing the torch, expressing his admiration and congratulating Ovechkin on this remarkable accomplishment. Ovechkin, visibly emotional, credited his success to his teammates, family, and the fans. He humorously thanked Sorokin for being the goaltender he scored against, a moment that lightened the atmosphere despite the serious nature of the record he had just set.