GRAND FORKS — The NHL was in a bitter lockout 20 years ago, one that eventually led to the cancellation of the entire season. It was perfect timing for Grand Forks and Thief River Falls. The World Junior Championship was in town that year. The lockout meant all eligible players would play in the event.

The Great Eight is within striking distance of Wayne Gretzky's all-time NHL goals record of 894, which Gretzky reached on March 29, 1999, against the New York Islanders. Ovechkin began this season with 853 career goals.