An Old Nemesis Of The Rangers Is Looking A Little Washed

Alexander Ovechkin is one of the greatest players in NHL history. His goal scoring prowess is rivaled only by a few in history, and he is second only to Wayne Gretzky for all-time goal scoring. He's also had some legendary battles with the Rangers between 2009-2015, facing them in five playoff series with four of the five being taken to a game seven.

Coming into 2023-24, Ovechkin looked like he was well on his way to setting the NHL goals record, but he's off to a rough start after failing to score a goal in his first four games of the season. Also equally shocking, for the first time in his 19-year NHL career, Ovechkin went consecutive games without registering a single shot on goal.


Now granted, the man is 38. He's currently in his 19th season with the NHL, a decline was bound to happen. Today, the Capitals will be playing their fifth game of the season against the Toronto Maple Leafs. He will have his chances to see the back of the net this year. What is not guaranteed however, is if he can surpass Gretzky's goal mark at 894. Ovechkin, currently is at 822, so that's 72 goals. His previous two seasons, he scored 50 and 42 goals respectively. Before next season, he will turn 39. Does he have enough left in the tank to pass that mark? This year will show if he can.


Update: As I finish typing this, during the game against the Toronto Maple Leafs, Ovechkin just tied the NHL record for penalty shots attempts and just scored his first goal of the season. He also hit a new milestone, with 300 power-play goals.



The Capitals are currently trailing the Maple leafs, 4-1 going to the third period.