Ovechkin seven goals from Gretzky's record in NHL

The NHL is heating up as teams push for playoff spots. Alex Ovechkin of the Washington Capitals is in the spotlight, needing just seven goals to surpass Wayne Gretzky's all-time record of 894 goals. The Capitals have already clinched a playoff berth and are enjoying a strong season. Several games feature teams fighting for position. The Vancouver Canucks will face the New York Rangers. Both teams are just outside the playoff picture. The Rangers are trailing the Montreal Canadiens by two points, while the Canucks are one point behind the St. Louis Blues. In another matchup, the Dallas Stars are looking to maintain their lead in the Central Division against the Philadelphia Flyers. The Stars are in a close race with the Colorado Avalanche, who have been winning frequently. The Flyers, on the other hand, are struggling and need to win to keep their playoff hopes alive. The Minnesota Wild will take on the Buffalo Sabres. The Wild are currently holding the first wild card position in the West, while the Sabres sit at the bottom of the Eastern Conference. The Wild are getting back defenseman Jonas Brodin, which could be a boost for them. The St. Louis Blues are on a roll, winning four straight games and fighting for a wild card position. They will host the Chicago Blackhawks, who have already been eliminated from playoff contention. The Calgary Flames will try to sweep their trip through New York with a game against the Islanders. Both teams are in close contention for a wild card spot, with the Flames just behind the Blues and Canucks. Finally, the Carolina Hurricanes are up against the Los Angeles Kings, who have been strong at home. The Hurricanes are on a winning streak, while the Kings are trying to catch the Edmonton Oilers for a better playoff position. Overall, the races for the playoffs are tight, with teams battling hard in their last few games of the season.