Evgeni Malkin’s Perfect Reaction to Alex Ovechkin Breaking Wayne Gretzky Scoring Record

Washington Capitals superstar Alex Ovechkin put his name in the record books on Sunday, scoring his 895th goal and surpassing Wayne Gretzky in the process as the all-time leading scorer in NHL history.

Following the game, fellow Russian Evgeni Malkin commented on Ovi’s incredible achievement, who also came into the league in 2004.

Via The Athletic:

“It’s a huge day for hockey,” Malkin said. “I’m glad I’ve played with him, against him. He’s a great player. I hope he stays healthy, maybe he’ll score 900 goals (this season), you know? His family will celebrate today. Probably the whole country of Russia, and the U.S., were watching today. It’s huge. I’ve played against him for 20 years. He’s a machine. He never stops. Bad times. Good times. He finds a way to score.”

“He not believe it (that it’s been more than 20 years), I not believe it, that he’s broken the record,” Malkin continued. “He never stopped. He isn’t a typical player. He doesn’t work out every day. He doesn’t eat healthy. He just loves hockey.”

Alex Ovechkin and Malkin were friends as teenagers long before they came into the NHL, and while they’ve had a strained relationship at times playing for two rivals, Malkin is incredibly proud of his countryman and knows this is a huge day for the sport of hockey in Russia:

“I probably won’t call him until a little bit later,” Malkin said. “He has 1,000 messages probably. I sent him a message before the game today, said congrats. It’s an amazing day for Russian hockey. I’m glad Wayne Gretzky (was there). A great day for hockey for all of us.”

At 39 years old, Ovi continues to wow everyone. As Malkin alluded to, he’s not a physical specimen. He doesn’t eat well. Ovechkin simply loves hockey, and he, of course, has a gift with the puck at his stick.

I mean, you don’t score 895 goals unless you do. This record will likely stand forever, and Alex Ovechkin has made a serious case as the GOAT.

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