Alex Ovechkin’s legacy as the greatest goal scorer in NHL history is well-cemented, and his unmatched ability to find the back of the net continues to strike fear into defenders across the league. Recently, several NHL and KHL players had the rare opportunity to team up with Ovechkin in a high-profile friendly known as the “Match of the Year” in Russia.
Among them was Egor Zamula, a young defenseman for the Philadelphia Flyers, who shared his relief at not having to face Ovechkin’s lethal shot on the penalty kill. The overwhelming sentiment from players is clear—playing with Ovechkin is far more pleasant than playing against him.
Zamula Describes the Fear and Force Behind Ovechkin’s Relentless Goal Scoring Threat
Zamula’s post-game comments captured the awe and trepidation many defenders feel toward Ovechkin’s blistering shot. Speaking to Sov-Sport, he described the physical toll Ovechkin’s slap shots can inflict, recalling teammates who sustained serious injuries while attempting to block them.
Alex Ovechkin (NHL)His remarks underline a simple truth: defenders must either block Ovechkin perfectly or try to avoid getting hit altogether. The sheer danger of his shot has made him a unique challenge in the league, one who consistently finds ways to score regardless of defensive strategy.
Even at nearly 40 years old, Ovechkin’s shot remains one of the most powerful in the NHL. According to the NHL Edge Stats, he ranks among the league’s elite in both top and average shot speeds, reaching nearly 99 mph at his peak. His ability to consistently unleash shots over 90 mph puts him in a class of his own among forwards.
The combination of longevity and force has made Ovechkin not just a prolific scorer but a dangerous presence every time he steps onto the ice.
Ovechkin’s Slap Shot Power Leaves Injuries, Teammates and Opponents in Its Wake
Ovechkin’s devastating shot has led to numerous injuries over the years—proof of its raw power. Former teammate Radko Gudas vividly recalled the aftermath of blocking a shot under his shoulder pad, describing an arm turned entirely black and blue.
Ovechkin’s slap shot has also taken out several other NHL players, including Connor Ingram, Erik Cernak, Mikhail Sergachev, Alex Tanguay, and Kevin Klein. These injuries are not outliers but recurring outcomes of trying to defend against one of the most dangerous shooters in hockey history.
Even Ovechkin’s teammates haven’t been safe. Goalies like Ilya Samsonov and Vitek Vanecek have had their fair share of close calls, prompting Braden Holtby to reveal that Ovechkin has consciously toned down his shot power in practice to avoid injuring teammates.
That awareness hasn’t dulled the impact of his play. In 2018, Ovechkin demonstrated his unparalleled power by winning the NHL All-Star Skills Hardest Shot competition with a 101.3 mph slap shot—an achievement rare for a forward. Ovechkin’s shooting prowess has not only defined his career but also redefined what’s possible for goal scorers in the NHL.
