NHL News Rewind: Ovechkin Nears 900, Devils Rolling, and Hughes vs. Hutson

It was a big Friday across the NHL, led by Alex Ovechkin, who inched closer to becoming the first 900-goal scorer in league history. Meanwhile, the New Jersey Devils won again, picking up a win over the San Jose Sharks. Finally, Saturday is a nearly full slate of games (13) for the NHL, but the must-watch game might be the Vancouver Canucks versus the Montreal Canadiens, as Quinn Hughes battles Lane Hutson.

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Ovechkin Scores Goals 899

The Washington Capitals captain scored his 899th career goal and added an assist in a win over Columbus, extending his records for both career goals and game winners (137). Ovechkin, who ties Wayne Gretzky for most third-period goals (336), will play his 1,500th NHL game tonight on Hockey Night in Canada — where history could be made.

Ovechkin only has two goals thus far on the season, but he’s the kind of player who can go off with several multi-goal games in a row.

The Devils Win 7th Straight Game

In New Jersey, the Devils keep rolling, and a three-point night by defenseman Dougie Hamilton helped the team earn another win Friday. He notched two goals and an assist in a 3–1 victory over San Jose that stretched the club’s win streak to seven games.

The Devils made history by having a defenseman score the game-winning goal in three straight contests, a first for the franchise.

Hutson vs Hughes on Saturday Night

Game 2 of the World Series goes Saturday, but there might be some hockey fans keeping an eye on a particular game in the NHL. Tonight’s Hockey Night in Canada slate features four marquee matchups, including a standout showdown between defensemen Quinn Hughes and Lane Hutson — two of the NHL’s best defensemen.

Hughes (2023-24 Norris Trophy winner) and Hutson (2024-25 Calder Trophy winner) are must-watch, dynamic talents. They combined for five points in their only previous meeting (Jan. 6, 2025). Hughes enters 2025–26 with four straight 60-assist, 65-point seasons. Hutson, who set Canadiens rookie records last year, could soon join that elite group with multiple 60-assist campaigns before age 23.

Other NHL Notables From Friday

Elsewhere, Josh Morrissey’s three assists powered the Winnipeg Jets to their sixth win in seven games, while rookie Zach Benson collected his seventh assist as Buffalo extended its home win streak to four. The Sabres passed the Toronto Maple Leafs in the standings, with William Nylander leaving the game for Toronto and questionable for the rematch on Saturday.

The Edmonton Oilers will face the Seattle Kraken on Saturday night, with the Oilers still looking to find their rhythm despite a winning record. Rookie Ike Howard will be on the top line with Connor McDavid.

The 6-2 Pittsburgh Penguins will take on the Columbus Blue Jackets. A win for the Penguins will put them in a situation (7-2) where they may have to start re-thinking their retool approach this season.

Next: NHL News Rewind: Celebrini & Cooley Explode, Oilers vs Canadiens Chaos