The magic number for Alexander Ovechkin was 895. That was the tally that the Washington Capitals forward needed to become the NHL’s all-time leading goal scorer and surpass the long-standing record by ice-hockey’s greatest legend, Wayne Gretzky.

The talk of Ovechkin passing the target had been slowly gathering momentum over the last few seasons and against the New York Islanders on April 6th, 2025, he finally got over the line, lighting up the lamp in what ultimately proved to be a 4-1 loss, with Gretzky himself watching on from the stands.

Run at Gretzky, Put on Ice

Hockey’s popularity stretches far beyond the rink. The NHL, its most watched league, pops up even in online casino slots. You’ll find titles like NHL Gold Blitz featured on various platforms, whether it’s a US site with $5 top-ups or a £5 deposit casino in the UK that lets you place low-stakes bets while playing hockey-themed titles and other slots. And one of the biggest stories in the NHL right now is the long-anticipated moment when Ovechkin finally broke Gretzky’s record. That Ovechkin was going to get there was inevitable. Each time he netted along the way was a small, yet crucial contribution to his historic tally.

But Ovehckin’s run at Gretzky’s total this season looked in jeopardy after he fractured his left leg in a collision with Utah Hockey Club’s Jack McBain in November. It was estimated that the fracture would see him miss around six weeks of game time, but Ovechkin was back in skating practice two weeks after the injury and was suiting up again after only missing around five weeks.

During his “hard month”, Ovechkin missed 16 games of the Caps’ season, who posted a 10-5-1 record in his absence. Ovechkin’s return from injury happened in late December against the Toronto Maple Leafs, and he was immediately back among the scoring with an empty-netter as the Capitals ran out 5-2 winners. The goal put Ovechkin within 26 of Gretzky’s NHL goal-scoring record.

How the Record Fell

Ovechkin’s historic goal came in the second period of the game against the New York Islanders at the UBS Arena in early April. He ghosted into the left circle on the power play and unleashed a wrist shot that beat Islanders’ goaltender Ilya Sorokin’s blocker.

It was somewhat fitting that the goal came the way it did, as it’s where Ovekchin has been so prolific throughout his career. Upon reaching his 895 goal mark, 43.9% of his career goals had come from or above the left circle.

The celebration was iconic. He skated back towards centre ice and belly-flopped to slide across the blue line, giving fans echoes of his famous fountain splash in Georgetown after he had helped the Capitals win the Stanley Cup in 2018.

However, Ovechkin later stated that his latest celebration was accidental and that he had just tripped on some bad ice. Regardless he was quickly mobbed by his teammates before a 15-minute game delay where NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman and Gretzky offered up their congratulations to the Russian.

Symmetry

39-year-old Ovechkin’s record-breaking goal came on his 1,487th appearance, all of them for the Washington Capitals. Remarkably, that was the exact number of games that Wayne Gretzky took to set the previous goalscoring record. Gretzky had swept past the previous record of 801 set by Gordie Howe long before that.

Ovechkin’s record breaking goal also appeared on the 21st anniversary of the Washington Capitals’ winning the NHL Draft Lottery in 2004, the year they picked him with the overall No. 1 pick.

Who Can Challenge

Records are there to be broken, and there has already been plenty of talk about who could challenge Ovechkin’s record. Who knows how high that goalscoring record will get, and he’s already on course to record his 15th 40-goal season in the NHL.

Toronto’s Auston Matthews is the name that most people will currently pick to challenge Ovechkin’s NHL goal-scoring record. He’s well on pace to at least be in the frame with almost 400 career goals in 600+ games and has a career 0.64 goals-per-game rate, while Edmonton’s Leon Draisaitl is there around the 400 goal mark, albeit at a lower average goals-per-game rate of 0.51.

What does it take to get to 900 goals in the NHL? Consistency. It’s an average of 45 goals per season for 20 seasons. To put that in context, Auston Matthews has an average of 44.4 goals per season from his nine years in the league, so he would need to churn out another 11 or 12 seasons of that to get there.

Non-Active Players

Perhaps the next record-breaker isn’t active at the moment. Michael Misa is coming up in the next draft and could get himself in the conversation, while the WHL’s Gavin McKenna is a red-hot prospect for the following draft.

Then there’s Russia’s Matvei Michkov, who, as a 16-year-old became the youngest player to represent his country at the full international level, beating Ovechkin’s previous record. Michkov has had an impressive rookie season for the Philadelphia Flyers and with improvements to conditioning and discipline, the 20-year-old could threaten his compatriot’s record.

A casino welcome bonus is there to help you get started at a gambling website, allowing you to add more value to your first deposit. However, it’s important to understand everything that it entails. In the majority of cases, these promotions come with strings attached. If you know what are the key details to follow, you’ll easily claim the best bonus for yourself.

In this article, we’re going to give you our expert tips on how to claim the best welcome bonus. Before you proceed to sign up for an easy payout casino that pays out winnings quickly, we’ll break down the steps to follow to find the best bonus out there. Buckle up and get ready, let’s dig in.

What is a Welcome Bonus

The welcome bonus serves to attract new players to an online casino. Essentially, this is a reward that you get for opening a new casino account with a brand. Brands offer several types of welcome bonuses. The most popular ones are:

• First deposit bonus – In most cases, brands will match your first deposit. For example, if you deposit €100, you’ll get €100 more to play with.
• No deposit bonus – This is a type of bonus that you immediately get once you sign up. It can be cash or free spins, varying from one brand to another.
• Free spins – Some brands hand out free spins once you make a first deposit. They can either be available for all slots, or they can only be used on a specific slot game. Reading about a slot before claiming the bonus specific to it is a great idea. A great example to explore is the Mummys Gold review, which goes into all the relevant details about the game. That way, you know whether the free spins offered for a specific game are worth it or not. 
• Cashback offers – Some brands offer 24-hour cashbacks on net losses made during that period. For example, if you spend €100 in the first 24 hours, and your net losses are €70, a 100% cashback would reward you with another €70 in bonus funds. 
• Mixed welcome bonus – There are plenty of brands that offer a mixed-type bonus. It’s a combination of a first deposit with free spins included.

Tip #1: Always Read the Terms and Conditions

The single most important thing to do is read the terms and conditions. They include the most important details about a particular welcome bonus. The most important factors to consider are:

• Wagering requirements
• Wagering contribution
• Game restrictions
• Time limits
• Excluded payment methods

Each of these elements varies greatly and will impact how good a welcome bonus is. If any of these factors is too strict, the bonus that might look generous will become unplayable.

That’s why reading the terms and conditions is so important. All the details are in fine detail, tucked away in a place where the majority of players never look at. Let’s closely inspect each of these factors.

Tip #2: Compare Offers Before Signing Up

Shopping for a good bonus should be your general practice. As the worldwide gambling market is huge and highly competitive, brands compete against each other by offering bonuses, you’ll easily find the best one for you.

Even if you see a big number, that doesn’t mean that a particular bonus is generous. The devil is in the details. A 100% up to €500 with a 40x wagering requirement is a worse proposition than 100% up to €100 with a 10x wagering requirement. The first bonus will require you to wager €20,000 before being able to withdraw any bonus funds, whereas the second one requires you to wager only €1,000.

The second offer is much more realistic, especially considering how the majority of these promos come with a one or two-week limit.

Tip #3: Look for Low Wagering Requirements

You should be looking for a low wagering requirement bonus. The lower it is, the better. Always opt for a bonus with 10x-20x wagering requirements, as you’re more likely to reach those during the promotional period.

It means that you are more likely to get a cashout of the bonus funds if you’re lucky enough to win something. Additionally, pay attention to game wagering contributions. You want a brand that offers a game type that makes a full contribution to the wagering requirement. Some games offer a percentage of a single playthrough. If you want to play blackjack exclusively, its contribution might double the wagering requirements you have to go through.

Tip #4: Check Game Eligibility

Check out which games are part of the promotions. Usually, you’ll find that the bonus only applies to slot games. If you like live casino or playing table games in general, find a brand that permits you to use your bonus in those sections of the site.

Tip #5: Use Trusted and Licensed Casinos

To ensure fair play, always opt for a brand that holds a license from a recognized authority in the industry. The top globally accepted authorities are:

• Malta Gaming Authority
• United Kingdom Gambling Commission
• Any state-regulated or province-regulated brands (for the United States and Canada)

Picking a platform that doesn’t hold a respectable license is a bad decision. You can lose your payouts and have your account terminated for no apparent reason. One thing to look out for is a constant change of terms and conditions, this might be pointing to something suspicious. If you’re on such a platform, consider transferring your funds to another brand.

Tip #6: Don’t Forget No-Deposit Bonuses

This type of bonus is most liked by players. As its name suggests, these are the bonuses that you get without spending any money. They usually come with strict terms and conditions, which is understandable given that the bonus is free. It’s a great way to try casino games completely free. That’s especially great for beginners.

Tip #7: Keep an Eye on Bonus Expiry Dates

The expiration date is another important part of a welcome bonus. If the wagering requirements are too high, you might not have enough time to meet them within a set period of time. Some bonus funds are only available for 7 days, whereas others can be available for as long as 30 days. So if you’re planning to use a welcome bonus, do it as soon as you get it.

Some places don’t wind down when the sun sets—they light up. As the day fades, cities worldwide switch into a whole new gear. Neon signs flicker on, music starts spilling out of bars and clubs, and the energy shifts in the best possible way. From the electric backstreets of Tokyo to the rhythmic nights of Rio, every city brings its own flavour to the after-dark experience.

Nightlife is about feeling the heartbeat of a place when most people are just getting started. Maybe it’s a rooftop bar with skyline views, a street full of live music, or even the buzz of a casino when luck feels just around the corner. Whatever your vibe, there’s something magical about discovering a city at night.

Toronto, Canada

Toronto, Canada, truly comes alive after dark. As one of North America’s most diverse and dynamic urban centres, its nightlife offers something for everyone. From the trendy bars and lounges in the Entertainment District to the live music spots tucked into Queen Street West, Toronto’s evening vibe is a rich blend of style, culture, and creativity.

For those looking for a high-energy entertainment, Toronto’s club scene delivers with top venues like Rebel and Toybox, where international DJs keep the dance floors moving into the early morning hours. But it’s not just about clubs and cocktails—the city also boasts a thriving arts scene, with theatres, comedy clubs, and live jazz bars that keep the spirit of the night vibrant.

Toronto’s nightlife has plenty to offer. But if you’re in the mood to switch things up and keep the good times rolling from the comfort of your hotel or home, consider checking out a Canadian casino site. This digital platform brings all the excitement of the casino floor right to your screen. 

It’s a laid-back way to unwind after a night on the town or a fun alternative when you’d rather skip the crowds. Fancy spinning the slots? Or maybe you’re in the mood for some blackjack or a round of poker? It’s all there, ready when you are. 

There is no dress code, no waiting for drinks—just pure, easy entertainment. And the best part? Online casinos are open 24/7, so you can jump right in whenever the mood strikes. It’s like having the thrill of a casino in your pocket, anytime, anywhere. 

Toronto knows how to make the most of the night. You’ll never run out of things to do—whether looking for a chill night out or an exciting adventure. Whatever you’re in the mood for, Toronto has a way of keeping things fun and lively, making sure the good times keep rolling all night long.

Tokyo, Japan

Tokyo’s nightlife is a vibrant blend of tradition and modernity, offering experiences that cater to all tastes. In the heart of this scene are the bustling districts of Shibuya and Shinjuku. Each illuminates the night with neon lights and infectious energy.​

Shibuya’s streets are alive with bars and karaoke lounges where locals and visitors gather to sing their hearts out. Popular chains like Big Echo and Karaoke Kan provide private rooms and an extensive song selection. That makes them ideal spots for a fun night out.

Shinjuku, particularly the Kabukichō area, offers a diverse nightlife experience. There’s something for everyone, from the tiny, themed bars of Golden Gai to high-rise karaoke rooms with stunning city views. The district’s neon-lit streets guide night owls through its myriad entertainment options.

For a taste of local culture, visiting an izakaya is a must. These Japanese-style pubs serve various small dishes and drinks, providing an authentic dining experience. Late-night ramen spots also offer a comforting end to an evening of exploration.

Unique attractions like the Robot Restaurant in Shinjuku add a futuristic flair to Tokyo’s nightlife. This venue combines high-energy performances with technical wizardry, creating an unforgettable spectacle.

Berlin, Germany

Berlin’s nightlife is legendary. It offers an eclectic mix of music, art, and culture that draws party enthusiasts from around the globe. 

At the heart of this vibrant scene are iconic techno clubs like Berghain and Sisyphos. Berghain, housed in a former power plant, is renowned for its industrial aesthetic and marathon dance sessions that can last the entire weekend. 

Sisyphos, set in a repurposed dog biscuit factory, offers a festival-like atmosphere with sprawling outdoor areas, making it a favourite for those seeking a more laid-back vibe. What sets Berlin apart is its 24-hour party culture, deeply rooted in values of inclusivity and creativity. 

The city’s clubs often double as safe spaces for self-expression, embracing diversity and fostering a sense of community. Beyond the music, Berlin’s nightlife is enriched by its vibrant street art, open-air events, and unique warehouse venues, all contributing to an immersive cultural experience that captivates visitors and locals alike.

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Rio de Janeiro’s nightlife is about energy, rhythm, and joy. It pulls you in with its music, dancing, and the unmistakable buzz that fills the streets. It’s not just fun; it’s a full-on experience that locals live for and visitors never forget. 

Lapa, a neighbourhood renowned for its live samba music and lively street parties, is at the heart of this scene. The iconic Arcos da Lapa aqueduct is a backdrop to bustling venues where samba rhythms invite everyone to dance.

In the upscale districts of Copacabana and Ipanema, the nightlife takes on a more relaxed yet equally enchanting vibe. Rooftop bars like Moonlounge offer panoramic views of the city and ocean, providing the perfect setting for sipping caipirinhas under the stars. Beachside clubs pulse with energy, blending the sounds of the waves with eclectic music selections.

The spirit of Carnival infuses Rio’s nightlife year-round. Beyond the famous annual festival, venues like Baródromo in Lapa bring the Carnival atmosphere to life with live samba performances and festive décor, allowing partygoers to experience the exuberance of Rio’s most famous celebration any time of the year.

Rio’s nightlife offers an incredible voyage into the heart of Brazilian culture, whether you’re drawn to the refined atmosphere of Copacabana’s rooftop bars, the rhythmic beats of samba in Lapa, or the eternal Carnival energy.​

Catch the Beat of the Night, Wherever You Go

From the glowing alleyways of Tokyo to the rhythm-filled streets of Rio, nightlife around the globe is a window into the heart of a city. When the sun sets and the day winds down, that’s when the real magic begins. Street food stalls come alive with sizzling flavours, live music spills onto sidewalks, and tucked-away bars open their doors to anyone willing to follow the sound.

Every city has its own unique nighttime rhythm. Some pulse with high-energy beats and packed dance floors, while others hum with mellow jazz in dimly lit lounges. But no matter the pace, the energy is unmistakable—and impossible to ignore. That’s why, instead of returning to your hotel after dinner, it’s worth leaning in and seeing what the night offers.