Alex Ovechkin is closing in on Wayne Gretzky's legendary goal-scoring record, now just 21 goals away after netting his 873rd in a decisive 4-1 victory for the Washington Capitals against the Nashville Predators. Ovechkin's goal, an empty-netter, came with less than a minute left in the game, and he also contributed an assist to the win.

Having entered the season needing 42 goals to surpass Gretzky's total of 894, Ovechkin's pursuit was briefly interrupted by a leg injury that sidelined him for 16 games. Nevertheless, the 39-year-old veteran is determined to reclaim his scoring prowess this season.