Wayne Gretzky never fails to impress, does he? Be it on the ice or off it, the Great One is always a treat to watch because of his positive attitude and humble nature. Yesterday, he was involved in one such moment with Capitals sensation Ryan Leonard. All the attention is on Alex Ovechkin, but the 20-year-old also had a noteworthy game against the Chicago Blackhawks, having scored his first NHL goal yesterday. Subsequently, he received special praise from Gretzky, leaving fans impressed by the legend’s wonderful gesture.
Gretzky was in attendance during the Capitals game to watch Alex Ovechkin equal his record for the most goals scored in the NHL. But despite the media storm surrounding Ovechkin, Gretzky still had some time to spare for Leonard. Following the game, he made his way into the Capitals’ dressing room, where he took some pictures with Ovechkin. Subsequently, he also congratulated Leonard on his first NHL goal.
“The kid who scored on the empty net, where is he? That was a tough decision, wasn’t it? Do I go around the net? Congratulations on your first goal,” Gretzky said. Meanwhile, Leonard was all smiles after hearing the Great One’s praise, and they shook hands to a round of applause, whistles, and cheers from the packed dressing room.
On Sunday, Ryan Leonard was still enrolled at Boston College.
Today, he’s getting personally congratulated by Wayne Gretzky after scoring his first NHL goal. pic.twitter.com/cPQFN6jt2s
— NHL (@NHL) April 5, 2025
Wayne Gretzky also showed us that his funny bone was very much intact as he added, “895 more and you can pass him [Ovechkin].” With the Great One’s vote of confidence, what more can a young hockey player need? Gretzky’s kind gesture toward a young player left many fans in awe, who took to social media to celebrate this moment.
Wayne Gretzky impresses fans with his kind gesture
It was a special evening for the 20-year-old Ryan Leonard, having recorded his first NHL goal and receiving words of appreciation from Gretzky, the legend himself. As the wholesome moment did rounds on social media, fans couldn’t hold back and were touched by Gretzky’s words. One of the fans wrote, “Man, Wayne is obviously a legend but you can tell everyone just wants to be around him. This is awesome stuff right here. Love this game.” Indeed, legends like Gretzky make the game more beautiful, and he showed exactly why with his warmth and positive encouragement.
Similarly, another fan thoroughly enjoyed Leonard’s goal and felt that this was just the beginning for him with more yet to come. “That’s what is awesome about this game and it’s players. Great experience for that young man. Enjoy watching you learn and grow Ryan; it’s going to be a fun ride,” the fan said, expressing his anticipation about seeing Leonard develop further as a player.
Further, a section of fans praised Leonard’s skills on the ice. An X user wrote, “He’s got some great skating ability.” Leonard was playing college hockey for Boston College, and his ability to quickly accelerate and rush past defenders has been well observed by fans and scouts alike.
Interestingly, one fan put himself in Leonard’s shoes and spoke of what would happen if he were ever praised by Wayne Gretzky. “Imagine being that kid I would pass out,” the fan commented, knowing what a big deal it was for a veritable icon of the sport to take the time to congratulate a young player.
Lastly, Leonard’s quick transition from college hockey to the NHL left many fans in awe of his skills. One comment read, “Wow, what a remarkable overnight success.” While it may have been tough to switch from NCAA hockey to the NHL, Leonard showed how it can be done effortlessly with a stunning display against the Blackhawks.
The Capitals are high-flying this season and have booked their spot in the Stanley Cup Playoffs. Can they continue their winning run and win the Stanley Cup this season? Let us know your views in the comments below.
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