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Business Honor
19 November, 2024
Ovechkin scores twice in win at Utah, moves closer to Gretzky’s record, exits with injury
Washington Capitals star Alex Ovechkin suffered a lower-body injury in Monday's 6-2 win at Utah and left after scoring twice to inch closer to Wayne Gretzky's all-time NHL goal record. Ovechkin's two goals in the game brought his career total to 868, leaving him just 27 goals shy of Gretzky's 894.
Ovechkin got injured in the third period after a collision with Utah forward Jack McBain. The two players were trying to chase a loose puck when their left knees collided. Ovechkin skated to the ice clutching at his left leg and was helped to the bench before limping into the trainer's room. The team later reported that Ovechkin was being evaluated while coach Spencer Carbery said he didn't know anything more than that and indicated he'd find out on Tuesday.
Ovechkin had been playing outstandingly despite the injury scare. His two goals, the 14th and 15th this season, helped the Capitals recover from an early deficit. Ovechkin leads the NHL in goals, and his best start in the first 18 games of a season since entering the league. Moreover, it was his 100th career multi-goal road game, the most by any player in NHL history.
"He's been on fire and huge for our team," said Capitals forward Nic Dowd. "It sucks to see him go down." Teammate Tom Wilson also expressed frustration over the injury, as he fought McBain later in the game in response to the collision.
Ovechkin's first goal of the night was a significant one, making him the first player in NHL history to score 178 goals through his career from a different goaltender and tying him with Jaromir Jagr.
"It's tough to see him go down," goalie Charlie Lindgren said. "He's our leader, and what he's doing is beyond impressive."
The Capitals will wait to see updates on Ovechkin's condition, however, as they push for another run in the playoffs.