One of the great records in NHL history seems set to fall, with Washington Capitals star Alex Ovechkin closing in on the goal-scoring record set by Wayne Gretzky during an incredible 20-year career.
Few thought another player would even approach Gretzky's record of 894 goals. "The Great One" was a radically different player than anyone the NHL had seen when he burst onto the scene in the 1980s, and he did so in an era where defensive tactics placed more emphasis on hard hits than denying space and opportunities. Gretzky's time with the Edmonton Oilers, Los Angeles Kings, St. Louis Blues, and New York Rangers saw him rack up four Stanley Cup wins and nine Hart Trophies as the NHL's MVP.
Ovechkin's pursuit has been relentless, though, with the seemingly ageless winger's consistent production bringing him closer and closer to an NHL record that seemed untouchable. That has put him on the cusp of one of major U.S. sports' great achievements, but newer hockey fans might not know much about the man who currently holds the record.
Here's what to know about NHL record goal scorer Wayne Gretzky:
Who is Wayne Gretzky? 'The Great One,' explained
Wayne Gretzky is widely considered to be the best hockey player ever, with a 20-year NHL career that defies comparison to any other player in league history. The all-time leader in goals, assists and points revolutionized the sport, redefining how teams and players approached hockey on a fundamental level.
Gretzky went pro at 17, starting out with the Indianapolis Racers in the World Hockey Association before an early-season trade to the Oilers. The Oilers left the struggling WHA to join the NHL as part of a merger, and Gretzky became an instant superstar.
The centerpiece of an Edmonton team that ...
