NBA legend LeBron James congratulated NHL legend Alex Ovechkin on breaking Wayne Gretzky’s all-time goals record in a stunning demonstration of cross-sport friendship.
Ovechkin topped the NHL’s goal-scoring leaderboard on April 6, 2025, when he scored his 895th career goal during the Washington Capitals’ game against the New York Islanders.
With help from teammates Dylan Strome and Tom Wilson, Ovechkin scored the historic goal in the second period after he took advantage of a power play opportunity.
In addition to a unique on-ice ceremony with NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman and Wayne Gretzky himself, this accomplishment was greeted by a standing ovation from the audience, who commended Ovechkin’s commitment and talent.
LeBron James, who is renowned for appreciating athletic prowess in all sports, celebrated Ovechkin’s milestone on social media.
He praised Ovechkin’s unwavering quest for greatness and emphasized the importance of shattering a record that was once thought to be unbreakable.
In the past, Wayne Gretzky, whose record lasted more than thirty years, had said he supported Ovechkin’s pursuit. As Gretzky put it in an interview, “It’s not even a question that he will pass me, and I think it’s great.”
Resilience and consistency have been hallmarks of Ovechkin’s path to this apex. Throughout his 20-season tenure with the Capitals, he has maintained a high level of play, demonstrating incredible longevity at 39.
His 1,487th game, in which he scored 895 goals, matched the total amount of games Gretzky played during his career.
This accomplishment not only solidifies Ovechkin’s legacy but also acts as motivation for the entire sports community. Beyond the confines of specific sports, LeBron James’s recognition highlights the global esteem for such accomplishments.
The sports community looks forward to seeing how Ovechkin will continue to raise the bar for professional hockey as he pursues his career.