Part of what makes Alex Ovechkin’s pursuit of Wayne Gretzky’s NHL goal-scoring record so compelling is that the two players are polar opposites in some ways yet stunningly similar in others.

Alexander Ovechkin is closing in on the record for the most goals scored in the National Hockey League. While his achievement is being applauded by most, for some, his support of Vladimir Putin leaves a sour taste.

Ovechkin's pursuit of record-setting goals has been anything but smooth. This season has seen him overcome considerable challenges, including missing 16 games due to a broken leg. Returning in December,

Washington Capitals forward Alex Ovechkin didn't get closer to breaking Wayne Gretzky's all-time record on Thursday night, and his biggest moment came after the final horn. Following Washington’s 4–2 loss to the Minnesota Wild, the Capitals captain ran toward the tunnel and called his teammates back onto the ice to form a handshake line.

Fleury, who’s in his 21st and assuredly final season in the league, was on the home bench all night while Filip Gustavsson manned the net.

Alex Ovechkin initiated a memorable moment on the ice in Minnesota even though he went scoreless for Washington in a 4-2 loss