If NHL superstar Alexander Ovechkin seems to have been playing at hockey’s highest level for a lifetime now, that is because he more or less has. The 39 year old is celebrating his 20th year in the NHL this season and to go along with that milestone, he recently broke Wayne Gretzky’s longstanding all-time scoring record with his 895th goal. This is a record that he will surely add to as it is not clear whether he will hang up his skates at the end of this season.
To commemorate Ovechkin’s historic 895th goal, Upper Deck has released what it is calling Gr8 Moments trading cards. These cards will celebrate not only Ovechkin, but Wayne Gretzky as well.
e-Packs Available Now
Being an innovative trading card brand, Upper Deck did not waste much time in releasing the Gr8 Moments collection, announcing the move the very next day after Ovechkin’s 895th goal. The e-Packs (which are available online) consist of 8 base cards from three different sets; Red, Blue, and Gold. By collecting all 24 base cards, collectors can unlock even more unique pieces of this set, including an autographed card featuring both Gretzky and Ovechkin’s signature.
In a statement, Upper Deck’s president, Jason Masherah, highlighted this iconic achievement and iconic set of cards perfectly. “From his Young Guns card in ‘05-’06 to this history-defining goal, it’s been incredible to document Alex’s one-of-a-kind career through trading cards. Fans across all generations understand that we have witnessed history on the ice, and this is their chance to be a part of that. As fans, these are the moments we live for. As Upper Deck, celebrating these iconic moments through trading cards is at the heart of what we do.”
Collectors only have 8 total day to purchase these e-Packs and put together full sets. Some of the great moments celebrated in this set include his 100th career goal and his 2018 Stanley Cup victory with the Washington Capitals.
More Commemorative Memorabilia Incoming
Trading card companies are increasingly jumping at the opportunity to commemorate crowning achievements in sports. In much the same way rookie cards are popular, companies like Upper Deck are seizing on record-breaking moments and producing some breathtaking cards as a result. Look no further than Topps’ Shohei Ohtani card celebrating the moment he joined the 50/50 club. A 1/1 card celebrating that moment sold for more than $1 million recently.
Collectors are signaling that they like this growing trend and so you can only expect that Upper Deck may soon release physical cards celebrating Ovechkin’s record goal-scoring moment.
