The February 25 NHL game between the Washington Capitals and the Florida Panthers ended in an overtime defeat for the Capitals, 2-3. A late surge gave Washington the lead with only a few minutes remaining in regulation, but the Panthers answered in overtime to seal the win.
Alexander Ovechkin spent 18 minutes and 6 seconds on the ice, contributing to a night of mixed outcomes for the team. The Russian forward reached a personal milestone during his long career in the league, playing in his 1400th NHL game. Despite the milestone, the night did not showcase his scoring touch, and he left the game without extending a current scoring run. In the span of the last ten games, Ovechkin had been a factor for the Capitals with eight goals and six assists, a stretch that raised expectations heading into the matchup against Florida.
Entering the season, Ovechkin had suited up for 53 NHL games, amassing 16 goals and 26 assists. Those numbers highlight his ongoing role as a veteran presence on an increasingly young Capitals squad, as he continues to chase milestones while contributing in clutch moments and leadership on the ice.
With this game added to his highlights, Ovechkin narrowed the gap to Wayne Gretzky in the all-time goals list. Gretzky’s career total stands at 894, while Ovechkin’s goal tally reached 838 by February 21, leaving a gap of 56 goals for the record holder to overcome. The pursuit keeps fans engaged as the season progresses and the Capitals aim to climb in the standings while their captain remains a central figure in the franchise’s pursuit of excellence.
Earlier in the season, there were notable milestones for Ovechkin, as he became only the second NHL player to record 60 assists in a single campaign. This achievement underscored his all-around impact and the depth he brings, especially in games that demand playmaking and leadership under pressure.