Ovechkin continues Gretzky chase with 1st hat trick since 2022

Washington Capitals star Alex Ovechkin netted his first hat trick Sunday night since Dec. 31, 2022, putting him 29 markers shy of breaking Wayne Gretzky's all-time goal record.

Ovechkin's latest heroics marks the 31st hat trick of his career, the sixth most all-time. He's now tied for the league lead in goals with 13, alongside Edmonton Oilers forward Leon Draisaitl and Florida Panthers forward Sam Reinhart.

"It's fun to be a part of," said Capitals goaltender Logan Thompson, who made 40 saves in the 4-2 win over the Vegas Golden Knights. "I love being his teammate. He's the face of this franchise, the face of our dressing room. The guy keeps it loose every time, and he's a lot of fun. It's very special to be just on his team and him knowing my name."

Ovechkin's first of the night came early on the power play when his pass deflected off Golden Knights defenseman Alex Pietrangelo and into the back of the net.

"He's just finding ways to score," said Dylan Strome, picking up an assist on Ovechkin's opening tally. "First one's obviously lucky. When you get that many goals, sometimes luck goes your way."

Ovechkin's second came off the rush, beating former teammate Ilya Samsonov on the blocker side.

Ovechkin added his 59th career empty-netter to complete the hat trick.

Ovechkin and the Capitals next play Monday on the road against the Utah Hockey Club.