Alex Ovechkin passes Steve Yzerman to move into ninth on NHL’s all-time scoring list

Alex Ovechkin has reached another milestone.

After scoring a goal in the first period of the Washington Capitals’ 5-4 loss to the Nashville Predators on Wednesday, he surpassed Detroit Red Wings legend Steve Yzerman to move into ninth all-time on the NHL’s goal scoring list.

“You’ve had a tremendous career to date, and it looks like you’re going strong and might play forever. Best of luck and continued success. I’ve really enjoyed watching you play and watching you fill the net.” said Yzerman in a video message shown on the jumbotron during the game.

“One more thing, if you ever do break Wayne Gretzky’s all-time record for most goals in the league, after watching your Stanley Cup celebrations, I want to be invited to your party.”

Ovechkin has amassed 693 goals 1,134 regular season games over a span of 15 seasons with the franchise.

He needs just two goals to pass Mark Messier for sole possession of eighth, and is just 15 goals back from Mike Gartner for seventh all-time.