Gordie Howe, ever-competitive, noted before Gretzky broke his NHL goals record that he — Howe alone — would remain the major-professional leader, given that he’d netted 174 goals in the World Hockey Association for a combined total of 975. He still holds that record today.

Wayne Gretzky wore a No. 9 red pin to honor Detroit Red Wings legend and Mr. Hockey, Gordie Howe, as Alex Ovechkin scored a record 895th goal.

While Alex Ovechkin set the NHL career goal record on Sunday passing Wayne Gretzky, another hockey legend was also honored. Gretzky wore a pin with the no.9 on it, to celebrate Detroit Red Wings legend Gordie Howe.