Alex Ovechkin comes one goal closer to the record after scoring an empty-net goal. (0:27)
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TORONTO — Alex Ovechkin scored an empty-net goal in his return to action, and the Washington Capitals upended the Toronto Maple Leafs 5-2 on Saturday night.
In posting his 869th career goal, Washington’s captain is now within 25 of Wayne Gretzky’s all-time NHL mark of 894. It was his 16th goal in 19 games this season.
Ovechkin, who skated with the team often and was around the locker room throughout his recovery, played in his first game since he fractured his left fibula Nov. 18 against the Utah Hockey Club, a night in which he collided with forward Jack McBain.