The Great Eight is within striking distance of Wayne Gretzky's all-time NHL goals record of 894, which Gretzky reached on March 29, 1999, against the New York Islanders. Ovechkin began this season with 853 career goals.

Alex Ovechkin of the Washington Capitals is closing in on the NHL career goals record of 894 held by Wayne Gretzky. Ovechkin has 868 goals after scoring 15 in the first 18 games this season. He needs 27 to set a new record.

Good morning, I’m Dan Gartland. I hope everyone had an enjoyable holiday weekend.In today’s SI:AM:👑 LeBron turns 40📸 Every LeBron SI cover🏈 Vikings keep rollingThe Great 8 chases the Great OneOne of the primary story lines of this NHL season has been Washington Capitals star Alex Ovechkin’s pursuit of Wayne Gretzky’s career goals record.