Boston Bruins' coach Joe Sacco confirmed that defenseman Charlie McAvoy and forward Mark Kastelic are both out for the season, which could significantly impact the team's playoff chances. Meanwhile, the Carolina Hurricanes are dealing with Shayne Gostisbehere, who missed a recent game due to an upper-body injury. On the Columbus Blue Jackets front, goaltender Elvis Merzlikins has also missed a game due to injury.

In New York, the Islanders' Ilya Sorokin is uncertain for the remainder of the season following a lower-body injury. However, fellow defenseman K’Andre Miller has returned to the Rangers' lineup after a brief absence due to illness. The Ottawa Senators’ Brady Tkachuk expects to soon resume skating, aiming for a timely return ahead of the playoffs.

The Penguins are facing a tough period, losing Tommy Novak, Blake Lizotte, Noel Acciari, Matt Nieto, and Rutger McGroarty for the season. Lastly, Jakob Chychrun of the Capitals was a late scratch due to illness, highlighting the ongoing injury challenges faced by teams as they approach critical late-season games.

Alex Ovechkin has etched his name into NHL history by becoming the all-time leading goal scorer, surpassing Wayne Gretzky's long-standing record of 894 goals with his 895th goal during a match against the New York Islanders. The moment was marked with jubilation as Ovechkin celebrated with teammates and fans, expressing gratitude towards his family and the entire Capitals organization. He acknowledged his goal came against Ilya Sorokin, a fellow Russian goaltender, marking a personal milestone as he'd never scored on him before.

The achievement is a testament to Ovechkin's durability and consistency, achieving this milestone in his 1,487th game, the same number Gretzky played. Ovechkin's journey to this point has captivated audiences across North America and Russia, with billboards tracking his progress. He now looks towards reaching 900 goals, building on his legacy.

In a historic moment on April 6, 2025, Alex Ovechkin claimed his place in NHL history by scoring his 895th career goal, surpassing Wayne Gretzky as the league's all-time leading goal scorer. With a powerful slap shot past Ilya Sorokin of the New York Islanders, Ovechkin brought his Washington Capitals within one goal in a thrilling game at UBS Arena. The crowd erupted in cheers as his teammates celebrated this monumental achievement on the ice, joined by Gretzky, NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman, and Ovechkin's family.

A special on-ice ceremony followed, with Gretzky passing the torch, expressing his admiration and congratulating Ovechkin on this remarkable accomplishment. Ovechkin, visibly emotional, credited his success to his teammates, family, and the fans. He humorously thanked Sorokin for being the goaltender he scored against, a moment that lightened the atmosphere despite the serious nature of the record he had just set.

Alex Ovechkin has etched his name in NHL history by surpassing Wayne Gretzky’s longstanding record of 894 goals. Ovechkin achieved this milestone with his 895th goal against the New York Islanders, where he scored on Ilya Sorokin during a power play, marking Sorokin as the 183rd goalie he’s beaten. Demonstrating remarkable consistency and durability, Ovechkin has now reached the 40-goal mark for the 14th time in his career, a feat unmatched in league history.

The Great 8's career has been characterized by an impressive list of records, including power-play goals and the most goalies scored against. This achievement not only highlights Ovechkin's scoring prowess but also draws attention to his resilience, particularly after overcoming significant injuries this season. As the Capitals push for playoff success, Ovechkin’s record-breaking goal is a testament to his legacy and impact on the game.