As Alex Ovechkin enters his 21st NHL season, questions swirl about whether it could be his last with the Washington Capitals. The superstar turns 40 in September and is playing the final year of his five-year, $47.5 million contract. General manager Chris Patrick has left the decision entirely up to Ovechkin, emphasizing that the forward has earned the right to determine his own future timeline.
Ovechkin Weighs Future After Playoff Exit While Proving His Scoring Brilliance Endures
After Washington’s elimination from the 2024 playoffs in the second round against the Carolina Hurricanes, Ovechkin admitted he hadn’t yet thought about retirement. While acknowledging his age, he expressed determination to perform well in the upcoming season, leaving the door open to both continued play and future uncertainty.
Alex Ovechkin (NHL)
Despite suffering a fractured left fibula and missing 16 games, Ovechkin still tied for third in the league with 44 goals. His 895th career goal officially moved him past Wayne Gretzky for the most in NHL history. The accomplishment confirmed his enduring dominance and suggested that retirement might not be imminent, particularly since the Capitals’ playoff loss seemed to fuel his hunger for another championship run.
Ovechkin Balances Milestones, Motivation, and Legacy While Defying Age and Expectations
Capitals coach Spencer Carbery described Ovechkin as deeply motivated following the playoff disappointment. While acknowledging the challenges Washington’s stars faced against Carolina, Carbery expressed confidence that Ovechkin’s drive to score and win games has not diminished. At age 40, he continues to defy expectations, with coaches and management agreeing that his determination remains as strong as ever.
During the offseason, Ovechkin balanced family time, charity events, and full-time training after returning to Moscow. Celebrations in his honor, including those from Dynamo Moscow, highlighted his historic achievements. As the season begins, Ovechkin is close to reaching additional milestones, including 1,500 career games, passing Joe Sakic for 10th in all-time points, and becoming the first NHL player to score 900 goals.
Both Patrick and Carbery agree that Ovechkin is an unpredictable force who continues to defy age and logic. While new milestones are within reach, his primary focus remains on team success and chasing another Stanley Cup. For the Capitals and the hockey world, each game this season represents both a continuation of Ovechkin’s legendary career and a glimpse into what could be its final chapter.
Alex Ovechkin is set to head back to Washington in early September as preparations for the 2025-26 NHL season ramp up. While the Washington Capitals have yet to release their official training camp schedule, players are already participating in informal skates at MedStar Capitals Iceplex.
The team’s preseason opener is locked in for September 21. With Ovechkin turning 40 on September 17 and only one year left on his contract, questions linger about whether this will be his final season.
Record-Breaking Season, Global Recognition, and Honors Cement Ovechkin’s Legendary Hockey Career
Last season was another testament to Ovechkin’s remarkable consistency and skill. Even after missing 16 games due to a fractured fibula, he still finished third in the league in goals with 44 and tallied 73 points in 65 games. His crowning moment came in April when he scored his 895th career goal, surpassing Wayne Gretzky for the NHL’s all-time scoring record. This achievement added yet another historic milestone to an already legendary career.
Alex Ovechkin (NHL)
Ovechkin’s offseason began with a family trip to Turkey, followed by an extended stay in Moscow. He brought home the puck and stick from his record-setting goal to eventually display in his personal museum.
Recognition continued to pour in: he graced the cover of Washingtonian magazine, earned the ESPY award for “Best Record-Breaking Performance,” and won the 2024-25 Mark Messier Leadership Award. These honors underscored his influence both on and off the ice.
Charity Matches, Family Moments, and Ambitious Goals Ahead for the Capitals Star
In July, Ovechkin laced up for the “Match of the Year” charity event, where he was gifted a car, scored a goal, and operated a t-shirt cannon to the delight of fans. He also played in the gala match of the Ovi Cup youth hockey tournament, celebrating his goals record.
In a lighthearted moment, his young son Sergei outshone him in the friendly, scoring four times to his father’s single tally. These appearances reinforced Ovechkin’s enduring popularity and his connection to the next generation of players.
In August, Russian tech company Yandex announced plans to produce a documentary on Ovechkin’s career, while the NHL is reportedly creating its own film project. With the Capitals coming off an Eastern Conference title but falling short in the second playoff round against Carolina, Ovechkin remains locked in on the ultimate prize. His goal for the 2025-26 campaign is as straightforward as it is ambitious: “Play well and try to win the Stanley Cup.”
Last month, Alex Ovechkin participated in the annual “Match of the Year,” a charity hockey game featuring Russian NHL stars facing off against KHL players. The Washington Capitals captain scored a goal, contributing to the NHL team’s commanding 15–3 win.
While his on-ice performance was impressive, Ovechkin’s personality shone even brighter thanks to being mic’d up during the game, giving fans a rare and humorous look at his banter with teammates and opponents.
Ovechkin Seeks Assist Credit and Trades Friendly Jabs in Competitive Charity Match
Early in the game, Ovechkin set up a scoring opportunity for Carolina Hurricanes winger Andrei Svechnikov, who buried the puck. Proud of his pass, Ovechkin sought praise from Svechnikov though he was initially left without an official assist on the scoresheet.
Frustrated, Ovechkin jokingly lobbied the referees, claiming he and Artemi Panarin had “a bonus” riding on receiving the assist. The official good-naturedly agreed to credit them, showcasing the lighthearted spirit of the event.
Alex Ovechkin (NHL)
The match wasn’t entirely free of physical play. At one point, Nail Yakupov also a former first-overall draft pick blocked an Ovechkin one-timer and caught him with a high body check. Back on the bench, Ovechkin told Evgeni Malkin that he’d taken note of Yakupov’s jersey number for “future encounters.”
When the two met again at a faceoff, Ovechkin jokingly reminded Yakupov, “You’re on my list now!” The exchange added a competitive edge to an otherwise good-natured game.
Ovechkin’s Humor and Leadership Shine in High-Scoring Game and Upcoming Ovi Cup
Ovechkin played on the top line alongside Panarin and Svechnikov, with the trio producing several goals. One memorable moment came when Panarin fired a hard pass directly into Ovechkin’s skates. Laughing through the pain, Ovechkin asked, “Let it pass where? That thing’s flying at fighter jet speed.” The playful back-and-forth highlighted both their chemistry and Ovechkin’s comedic timing, further endearing him to fans.
Ovechkin’s busy offseason continues with his participation in the upcoming “gala match” at the Ovi Cup on August 9. The annual youth hockey tournament features 24 teams from Russia, Belarus, and Kazakhstan, giving young players a chance to showcase their skills while interacting with one of hockey’s greatest stars.
For Ovechkin, these events combine competition, charity, and community allowing him to entertain fans both with his game and his personality.
As Washington Capitals star Alex Ovechkin enters the final season of his current contract, speculation is swirling about whether this might be the swan song of his legendary NHL career. However, teammate Dylan Strome isn’t convinced.
Speaking at a recent charity golf event, Strome expressed skepticism toward the retirement rumors, citing Ovechkin’s own comments dismissing the idea. Though acknowledging anything is possible, Strome emphasized that no official word has come from Ovechkin himself, who called such speculation “preposterous.”
Strome’s Career Year Tied to Ovechkin’s Brilliance and Uncertain NHL Future
Strome has personal reasons for wanting Ovechkin to continue playing. During the 2024–25 season, Strome recorded career highs in goals, assists, and points, largely due to his role centering Ovechkin’s line.
The pinnacle of that season came when Strome assisted on Ovechkin’s record-breaking 895th goal, surpassing Wayne Gretzky’s all-time mark. That moment was a career highlight for Strome, who cherishes the memory of witnessing hockey history firsthand.
Alex Ovechkin (NHL)
Despite entering the final year of a five-year, $47.5 million contract, Ovechkin has not made any definitive statements about retirement. Speaking to Russian media, he emphasized a “wait and see” approach, stating there have been no discussions with the Capitals about a new deal.
He dismissed rumors of retirement as “pure nonsense,” reinforcing that the decision is yet to be made. This ambiguity leaves room for optimism among fans and teammates alike.
Ovechkin’s Passion and Legacy Fuel Belief He’s Not Done Just Yet
Capitals forward Tom Wilson also voiced confidence that Ovechkin’s career may not end just yet. Wilson noted Ovechkin’s passion for scoring and the game itself as indicators that he may continue beyond this season.
He speculated that reaching 900 goals may only motivate Ovechkin to push for new milestones. Both Wilson and Strome agree that doubting Ovechkin’s longevity in the game would be unwise, given his track record and competitive drive.
Regardless of what Ovechkin decides, his legacy is already cemented, both in NHL history and in the careers of teammates like Strome. Strome reflected on his own journey from a high draft pick to a late-career breakout, crediting the opportunity to play with Ovechkin as transformative. Now hitting his stride a decade after being drafted, Strome hopes Ovechkin remains part of the Capitals’ future and his own continued growth as a player.
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.
In February, NHL legend Alex Ovechkin made waves when he commented on rising Russian talent Matvei Michkov’s flashy playing style. After facing off against Michkov during the NHL season, Ovechkin praised the young star’s abilities but added that he believed Michkov should “show off a little less.” His remarks seemed to be rooted in traditional hockey values that emphasize humility and team-oriented play over individual flair.
Michkov Balances Humility with Confidence, Shines Brightest Against Ovechkin’s Washington Capitals
Months later, Michkov responded diplomatically to Ovechkin’s remarks during an interview with Match TV. He acknowledged that he hadn’t seen the quote but agreed with the sentiment, emphasizing the importance of hard work and knowing one’s value.
Michkov noted that while showing off isn’t necessary, players shouldn’t enter the league lacking confidence. His measured response showcased both respect for Ovechkin and belief in his own approach to the game.
Matvei Michkov (NHL)
Ironically, Michkov’s best performances during his rookie NHL season came against Ovechkin’s Washington Capitals. In four matchups, he notched five points (three goals, two assists), making the Capitals one of his most productive opponents.
One standout game included two goals and an almost-successful Michigan-style lacrosse shot. Though the Flyers ultimately lost that game, Michkov left a strong impression, particularly in high-pressure moments.
Michkov Stays True to Himself Amid Criticism, Caps Off Stellar Rookie Season
Ovechkin wasn’t the only critic of Michkov’s flashy style. Former Flyers head coach John Tortorella also clashed with the rookie over his preference for creative, unorthodox plays like the lacrosse goal. Despite public pushback, Michkov remained true to his playing identity.
Tortorella eventually gave up trying to change him, and the coach was later dismissed before the end of the season. Michkov defended his intense competitive drive, stating that winning is in his blood and that he strives to score and help his team every game.
Michkov ended his rookie campaign with an impressive 63 points (26 goals, 37 assists) across 80 games, tying for second among rookies with Macklin Celebrini. He finished fourth in Calder Trophy voting, just behind Celebrini, Dustin Wolf, and winner Lane Hutson. Despite some controversy, his talent and impact are undeniable.
On July 13, Michkov and Ovechkin will put aside their differences and team up for the “Match of the Year” against KHL stars—an exciting showcase of Russian hockey talent from two generations.
Former Buffalo Sabres coach Don Granato discusses Alex Ovechkin’s pursuit of Wayne Gretzky’s NHL record of 894 goals, with Ovechkin just five goals away as the Washington Capitals face the Boston Bruins.
While Ovechkin’s goal-scoring had decreased in recent seasons, Granato attributes his resurgence to the overall improvement of the Capitals as a team, making it easier for Ovechkin to find scoring opportunities. The Capitals’ success this season has set up Ovechkin for a real chance to break the record with nine games remaining.
Ovechkin’s Record Pursuit Supported by Team Depth, Adaptation, and Evolving Scoring Intelligence
Granato emphasizes that Ovechkin’s potential to break the record is not solely due to his individual efforts but also because of the contributions from his teammates and the front office.
The Capitals’ strong team performance, highlighted by key acquisitions such as Pierre-Luc Dubois and Jakob Chychrun, has provided Ovechkin with the support necessary to reach this milestone. The depth of the team forces opponents to respect the entire roster, making it difficult to solely focus on stopping Ovechkin.
Alex Ovechkin (NHL)
Ovechkin’s ability to adapt to his age and evolve his game is another critical factor in his goal-scoring success. Granato highlights that Ovechkin is no longer trying to replicate his younger self but instead has become more intelligent in his play, reading situations better.
This maturity has made him a more dangerous scorer at 39 years old. Ovechkin’s evolution is a testament to his deep love for the game and his strategic understanding of how to continue excelling.
Ovechkin’s Unpredictability, Playmaking, and Lethal Physicality Make Him Hard to Defend Against
Unlike other superstars like Nathan MacKinnon or Connor McDavid, who force opponents to adjust their entire game plan around them, Ovechkin is harder to game plan against. Granato notes that Ovechkin’s current style allows the situation to unfold with his teammates before he pounces, making him unpredictable.
Ovechkin’s playmaking ability, as seen in his assist to Dylan Strome, has also made him a more well-rounded player, further increasing his effectiveness on the ice.
Granato concludes by highlighting Ovechkin’s physicality and shot, which remain lethal even as he ages. Standing at 6-foot-3 and 238 pounds, Ovechkin’s size and strength make him a formidable presence on the ice.
His shot, which still surprises even the best goalies, is a unique weapon. Granato points out that Ovechkin’s ability to place the puck in seemingly impossible spots, combined with his shot’s velocity, makes it incredibly difficult for goalies to stop, as evidenced by his goal against top goalie Connor Hellebuyck.
Ovechkin Pays Tribute to Marc-Andre Fleury in Emotional Farewell Amid Capitals’ Loss
Alex Ovechkin, the Washington Capitals’ star forward, remained goalless in their 4-2 loss against the Minnesota Wild, keeping his career tally at 889 goals. He remains just six goals away from surpassing Wayne Gretzky’s all-time record, a milestone that has kept him in the spotlight for months. While he didn’t score, Ovechkin still found a way to make headlines with a heartfelt gesture toward an opposing player.
Ovechkin Honors Fleury in a Heartfelt Farewell After Years of Intense Battles
Despite the loss, Ovechkin ensured a special moment on the ice when he gathered his teammates to shake hands with Wild goaltender Marc-Andre Fleury. This was Fleury’s final season in the NHL, marking the end of a distinguished 21-year career.
Although Fleury did not play that night, sitting on the bench while Filip Gustavsson guarded the net, Ovechkin was determined to honor him. He was the first to greet Fleury at center ice, sharing a hug and a laugh in a moment of mutual respect.
Ovechkin Pays Tribute to Marc-Andre Fleury in Emotional Farewell Amid Capitals’ Loss
Ovechkin has a deep history with Fleury, having faced him frequently during Fleury’s 13 seasons with the Pittsburgh Penguins. The Capitals’ captain even reminded his team in the morning that this would be their last encounter with the veteran goaltender.
Over the years, Ovechkin managed to score 28 goals in 47 games against Fleury, making him the goalie he has scored on the most in his career. Washington’s head coach, Spencer Carbery, praised Ovechkin’s gesture, calling it a “classy” tribute to a legendary career.
Fleury’s Legacy A Respected Goalie Cherished by Teammates and Opponents Alike
Fleury’s impact extends beyond just his impressive statistics; he is widely respected across the league. Capitals center Dylan Strome, who played briefly with Fleury in Chicago, spoke highly of his character, noting that he is considered one of the best people in hockey.
Even the Wild players acknowledged the significance of the moment. Gustavsson, who replaced Fleury in the game, remarked that Fleury is beloved across the league, and no one would have a bad word to say about him.
As Fleury’s career winds down, the Wild will likely have their own way of honoring him in the near future. Players like Jonas Brodin expressed their appreciation for having played alongside him, recognizing the lasting impact of his career.
Fleury’s retirement marks the end of an era, but the admiration from both teammates and opponents alike highlights the legacy he leaves behind. Ovechkin’s gesture was not just a tribute but a reflection of the camaraderie and respect that define the sport of hockey.
His mother, Tatyana, was a basketball player, and his father, Mikhail, was a soccer player. They were both busy with their teams and couldn’t take young Alex to his practice. Coach Vyacheslav Kirillov begged Tatyana to get him back into hockey until she agreed.
That decision turned out to be important. When Ovechkin was 12 and playing in a competitive Moscow youth league, he learned that he needed three goals to break a record held by Pavel Bure. He scored six goals in the next game.
A few years later, some parents thought putting Ovechkin on the first line with Dynamo was favoritism because his parents worked for the club. Tatyana then asked the coach to move him down, so he played on the fourth line but still made it the team’s best.
Raised during the last years of the Soviet sports system by parents who were already successful athletes, Ovechkin had every opportunity to succeed. Along the way, he proved he didn’t need special treatment. He grew into a superstar on the ice and was the top NHL draft pick by the Washington Capitals in 2004.
Over the past 20 years, he became a Stanley Cup champion, celebrating by swimming in fountains — he’s known for being fun-loving. Teammates watched him become a husband, father, and a generous person who often paid for dinners on the road. Now, he’s set his sights on breaking Wayne Gretzky’s career goals record.
“He was a very, very bright young man in terms of his goal-setting for his life,” said Hockey Hall of Famer Igor Larionov, who met Ovechkin when he was a teenager. “He was determined. He was one of the fastest players on the ice, and he had a purpose. Every time he stepped on the ice, he was going to be the best.”
Alex Ovechkin with his family
Back in the USSR
Ovechkin was born on September 17, 1985, during a time when the Soviet Union was ending and Russia was changing. He became interested in hockey because of his father. If Mikhail’s influence had been stronger, Ovechkin might have been a goaltender, like Vladislav Tretiak, instead of a power forward and goal scorer.
“He would go on some trips and bring me some goalie helmets,” Ovechkin once recalled. “I didn’t know what it was, except it was something about hockey, and when I was a little kid everything was about hockey, hockey, hockey.”
Ovechkin quickly embraced the sport and showed he was good at it. Steven Warshaw, a marketing executive who worked with the Pittsburgh Penguins in Moscow in the 1990s, heard a lot about the next generation of Russian hockey stars.
“They give them everything they can — the best coaching, the best everything,” Warshaw said. “He was definitely given a jump start, as all great athletes are, especially when you have the right background.”
At 14, Ovechkin met Igor Larionov, a three-time Cup champion, who gave him advice about extra summer training and the importance of working out in the gym.
“He knew from his parents that to be successful, you have to be determined to do extra things off ice, on ice, and follow the right steps,” Larionov said. “It’s a combination of genetics from his parents, his approach to the game, his drive, his fire, and his power that made him a great player.”
Alex Ovechkin takes to the ice to warm up before the game
Coming to America
At 17, Ovechkin scored six goals in seven games to help Russia win the world junior championships for the second year in a row. The next year, he was the top scorer again, emerging as the best prospect in the NHL draft, just ahead of fellow Russian Evgeni Malkin.
The 2004-05 NHL lockout delayed Ovechkin’s move to North America, but when he finally arrived, he made an impact right away. On his first shift, he hit an opponent so hard that he knocked the partition holding the plexiglass together. He also scored his first two career goals and went on to score 52 goals in his rookie season, earning rookie of the year honors.
“He was actually making giant, massive steps toward stardom and started scoring goals, got his confidence,” Larionov said. “The Washington Capitals got the right players around him to kind of fit him and use his biggest strength, power, speed and shot.”
Ovechkin led the NHL in goals and points in 2008-09, helping the Capitals reach the playoffs in his third season, the first of three MVP awards he would win.
Ovechkin still visits Russia, usually once a year, and he has faced criticism for his relationship with Vladimir Putin after he publicly supported the Russian president in November 2017, ahead of an election. At the time, he told The AP and Washington Post, “I just support my country” and added, “It’s not about political stuff.”
Alex Ovechkin (NHL)
Forever Young
In his early years with the Washington Capitals, Ovechkin was surrounded by talented young players like center Nicklas Backstrom, defenseman Mike Green, and winger Alexander Semin, making hockey in the nation’s capital exciting to watch. Off the ice, they also enjoyed having fun together.
“He should’ve been out having his fun and having a new car every other week,” retired teammate Mike Knuble said. “You’re kind of like, ‘Oh, what car’s he driving this week?’ And just having a good, old time doing whatever he wanted to do and just playing hockey and bagging individual awards.”
In a sport where championships define players, Knuble worried that Ovechkin might be remembered only for his individual accomplishments because the Capitals weren’t finding success in the playoffs. The team went through several changes in leadership and the roster, but Ovechkin led the Capitals to a Stanley Cup victory in 2018, earning playoff MVP honors.
“He just didn’t want to let it go,” Backstrom said of the Cup.
Even though Ovechkin was 32 at the time, he and the Capitals celebrated the victory like few teams had in recent history. They famously swam in the Georgetown fountains — a spot now marked with a plaque — and the whole experience showed the best of Ovechkin.
“A big heart like a big kid,” longtime teammate John Carlson said. “He loves coming to the rink and he loves scoring goals and playing like we did when we were kids.”
Alex Ovechkin waves to the crowd after the game
The More Things Change
Ovechkin’s life changed off the ice, too. He married Nastya Shubskaya in 2016, and their joy grew even more in the summer of 2018 when they welcomed their first son, Sergei, in August. Their second son, Ilya, was born in the spring of 2020, and the boys have been a part of many of their dad’s important moments since then.
When Ovechkin scored his 801st and 802nd goals just before Christmas 2022, passing Gordie Howe for second place on the all-time list, he entered the locker room holding hands with Sergei and Ilya. He then placed them on his lap for photos.
“First of all, you have to think about your family, kids first, Nast, me,” Ovechkin said. “It changed 100%.”
At the 2023 All-Star Weekend in South Florida, which may have been Ovechkin’s last appearance at such an event, Sergei joined him on the ice wearing a matching “Ovi Jr.” jersey with his dad’s famous No. 8.
“He will remember that for all his life,” Ovechkin said.
Teammate Mike Knuble has enjoyed watching Ovechkin take on the role of dad, perhaps even more than seeing him as a goal-scorer. Tom Wilson, a teammate since 2013 and now a father himself, has seen Ovechkin grow as a family man. Wilson has joined the Ovechkin family on vacations, where he’s seen Ovechkin playing “Dance Dance Revolution” with his nephews and nieces.
“There’s never a dull moment,” Wilson said.
Even at home, Ovechkin enjoys spending time with his wife, kids, and their 9-year-old black lab, Blake.
“You don’t think about hockey,” he said. “You don’t think about the training or practice. You just enjoy your life, enjoy your time with the kids, with family, with friends and you can basically do whatever you want.”
Alex Ovechkin reacts after scoring a goal
The More They Stay the Same
Backstrom met Ovechkin almost 20 years ago, before either player turned 21. Since then, they’ve experienced the fun times, the Cup win, and hundreds of goals together.
“He’s always been the same,” Backstrom said. “He hasn’t changed a lot since the first time I met him: the same kind of outgoing person.”
Former teammate Nate Schmidt called Ovechkin “unapologetically himself.” Marcus Johansson, who spent his first seven NHL seasons with Washington and had another stint with the Capitals, said Ovechkin is warm and has “got a big heart and he takes care of the people around him.”
Current center Dylan Strome shares similar thoughts about Ovechkin when talking to friends.
“Very, very, very generous with his time, his money — going out of his way for people,” Strome said. “He always wants to be with the guys, whether it’s watch sports or just talk or whatever or have a couple beers, he’s always in for that.”
Carlson believes that Ovechkin, now 39, has stayed youthful as the age gap between veteran players and younger teammates in the locker room widens, while also appreciating every moment more. Wilson has seen Ovechkin sign countless pucks, sticks, and jerseys for other teams after games, always without hesitation.
“You can’t even really describe him in words,” Wilson said. “He’s just a guy that’s bigger than life, bigger than hockey. A personality that whenever he does hang them up, the game will miss him a lot.”
Alex Ovechkin made history again by scoring his 889th career goal, bringing him closer to Wayne Gretzky’s all-time record. The Washington Capitals star didn’t miss the opportunity to celebrate, skating past Winnipeg Jets assistant coach Scott Arniel with a smirk.
Arniel, who previously worked with Ovechkin as a Capitals assistant from 2018-22, recognized the moment with a smile. Ovechkin’s late goal tied the game and forced overtime, though the Jets ultimately secured a 3-2 victory.
Ovechkin Closes in on Gretzky’s Record, Maintaining Elite Scoring Form at 39
With just five goals left to tie Gretzky and six to break the record, Ovechkin is inching toward an achievement that once seemed impossible. At 39 years old, his scoring ability remains lethal, as demonstrated by his recent performance.
Despite the Jets’ strong defensive effort, Ovechkin found ways to create opportunities, proving why he is one of the greatest goal-scorers in NHL history. His ability to release the puck quickly with minimal space continues to make him a threat in every game.
Alex Ovechkin (NHL)
Ovechkin’s scoring pace suggests he could break Gretzky’s record by mid-April, possibly against the New York Islanders. With three goals in his last five games, he has regained momentum at the perfect time.
Winnipeg forward Mason Appleton acknowledged the challenge of defending Ovechkin, emphasizing how little time and space he needs to capitalize on opportunities. As the season progresses, opponents will continue to focus on shutting him down, but Ovechkin’s experience and skill make that task nearly impossible.
Ovechkin Delivers in Clutch Moments, Edging Closer to Historic Goal-Scoring Record
The latest milestone came with just four minutes remaining in regulation when linemate Aliaksei Protas found Ovechkin open in the left faceoff circle. Without hesitation, Ovechkin fired a wrist shot past elite goaltender Connor Hellebuyck, extending his record for most game-tying goals in NHL history to 150.
Capitals coach Spencer Carbery praised the veteran for delivering in crucial moments, stating that part of his job is to create ideal situations for Ovechkin to score.
Ovechkin, who has scored 36 goals this season despite missing 16 games due to injury, remains focused on his historic pursuit. If he reaches 40 goals again, it will mark the 14th time in his career, another NHL record.
As the hockey world watches his every move, Ovechkin remains unfazed, saying, “It’s a fun time… everybody’s watching, everybody’s paying attention.” With the record now within reach, all eyes will be on him as he aims to cement his legacy as the NHL’s greatest goal-scorer.
Washington Capitals captain Alex Ovechkin is on the brink of history, needing just 13 more goals to break Wayne Gretzky’s all-time NHL scoring record. In Sunday’s game against the Edmonton Oilers, Ovechkin made a significant stride toward this goal by securing his 32nd career hat trick.
He scored twice in the second period and added an empty-net goal in the third, helping his team claim a decisive 7-3 victory at Capital One Arena. His season tally now stands at 29 goals in 41 games, demonstrating his continued dominance at age 39.
Ovechkin Celebrates Milestone with Family, Reflects on Career and Future Goals
After the game, Ovechkin shared his thoughts on reaching this milestone with his family in attendance. He expressed his excitement, noting how much his children enjoy hockey and how special it was to achieve this feat in front of them. He also acknowledged the challenge of competing against one of the league’s best teams and players, making the victory even more meaningful. Despite the pressure of the record chase, he remains focused on enjoying each game and contributing to his team’s success.
Alex Ovechkin (NHL)
Ovechkin’s career with the Washington Capitals has been nothing short of legendary. With 882 career goals, including an impressive 200 since January 1, 2020, he has set himself apart as one of the greatest goal-scorers in NHL history. Notably, he is the first player ever to score at least 200 goals in three different decades, highlighting his remarkable consistency and ability to adapt over time. His scoring prowess has kept him at the top of the game, even as he approaches the latter stages of his career.
Ovechkin Nears Gretzky’s Record as Capitals Dominate NHL Standings
According to the NHL, Ovechkin is projected to surpass Gretzky’s record on April 4 in a game against the Chicago Blackhawks, provided he maintains his current scoring pace. If he achieves this milestone, it will mark one of the most significant moments in NHL history. The anticipation continues to grow among fans and analysts, all eager to witness the moment he cements himself as the league’s all-time leading goal scorer.
While Ovechkin’s record chase is making headlines, the Washington Capitals are thriving as a team. They currently hold the best record in the NHL and have extended their home-point streak to 16 games (11-0-5), the second-longest in franchise history. As they prepare to host the Calgary Flames on Tuesday, the team’s momentum remains strong. With Ovechkin leading the way, the Capitals are poised for both individual and team success as the season progresses.
