Alex Ovechkin Makes World-Class Gesture Towards Marc-André Fleury in Their Final Meeting

Alex Ovechkin remained at 889 career goals after going scoreless for Washington, six goals shy of breaking Wayne Gretzky's all-time mark. But Ovechkin still made his presence felt on the ice in Minnesota Thursday night.

The three-time NHL MVP and months-long national spotlight dweller as he chases down Gretzky's record went out of his way to rally his teammates following Washington's 4-2 loss to the Wild.

After the final whistle, he had all the Capitals return to the ice to applaud and shake the hand of retiring Wild goalie Marc-Andre Fleury.

Leading the way in strides, Ovechkin was the first to meet up with Fleury near center ice where the two took their time laughing together and embracing each other.

Fleury, in his 21st and likely final year in the NHL, watched from the bench as Filip Gustavsson received the goaltending duties for Minnesota.

Earlier in the afternoon, Ovechkin cautioned his teammates that this would be the last chance for them to see Fleury in action. Ovechkin had fought the Penguins many times while Fleury was playing in Pittsburgh during Fleury's first 13 NHL seasons.

Against Fleury, Ovechkin scored 28 goals out of 47 games, higher than against any other goaltender. Capitals center Dylan Strome, one of Fleury's former Chicago teammates for a brief stint, was among those who took part in the tribute.

The Wild weren't surprised by Ovechkin's gesture, but they appreciated the show of respect. Before long, they'll likely have their own in-house tribute to their veteran goalie.