Story perspectives
NHL Won't Retire Ovechkin's No. 8 Until He Retires
10/23/2025
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Story summary
- NHL Deputy Commissioner Bill Daly said the league would not retire Alex Ovechkin's No. 8 league-wide until Ovechkin retires.
- Wayne Gretzky's No. 99 is the only other number retired league-wide.
- A total of 465 players have worn No. 8, diluting its iconic status.
- Sidney Crosby's No. 87 may have a better chance of retirement due to its rarity.
