Alex Ovechkin made history again on Wednesday, becoming the first player in NHL history to score 900 goals. Back in April, he passed Wayne Gretzky with his 895th goal, setting a new all-time record. That achievement marked the end of one chapter in his career and the start of another.
The milestone goal was achieved at Capital One Arena, where fans celebrated the longtime Washington Capitals captain who has led their team for more than 20 years. It was a proud moment not just for Ovechkin but also for those who have supported him throughout his career, including team owner Ted Leonsis.
What Did Leonsis Say After Ovechkin’s 900th Goal?
Ovechkin scored his 900th goal with a spinning backhand shot against St. Louis Blues goalie Jordan Binnington. The Capitals went on to win 6–1, but the spotlight stayed on Ovechkin the entire day.
On Thursday, Leonsis later shared his thoughts on X, writing,
“900 goals. I have seen every single one and can’t remember another like that, a blind spinning backhand. I was an unabashed fan last night and asked Alex to sign my hat. Thank you, @ovi8.”
Leonsis’ post showed the deep respect he has for Ovechkin and the strong connection they’ve built over the years.
Ovechkin has spent his entire career with Washington since being drafted first overall in 2004. Leonsis has supported him through every high and low, from early playoff exits to the team’s first Stanley Cup in 2018. His post celebrated not only a milestone but also the long connection between the player and the franchise.
Ovechkin’s wife, Anastasia Shubskaya, also watched the game from the stands with their two sons as he reached the milestone. After the game, Ovechkin said it felt good to get the milestone at home, surrounded by his teammates, fans, and family. He thanked his teammates for their support and said he tries to focus on playing well each game rather than chasing numbers.
“It’s a huge number,” Ovi said, via NHL.com. “No one ever did it in NHL history and to be the first player ever to do it, it’s a special moment. So, yeah, it’s nice it’s over, and it’s nice to get it at home, so the fans and family can be here. Yeah, it’s pretty cool.”
Also read: Ovechkin’s Wife Reveals the Omen That Powered Capitals Legend’s 900-Goal Milestone
Capitals coach Spencer Carbery also spoke about the achievement, saying,
“For him to do it at the clip he’s done it at over the last 20 years, I still honestly don’t think we truly understand,” he said. “I think it’s going to take years of reflecting back to really grasp what’s transpired here over the past couple of years. At the age he’s at, to still be doing what he’s doing.”
Ovechkin continues to lead the Capitals with the same determination he had when he entered the league. As the season goes on, it also marks the final year of Ovechkin’s current contract. While the future is uncertain, his 900th goal stands as a lasting tribute to the impact he has had on Washington hockey.
