NHL News: Capitals star Alex Ovechkin shares his thoughts after record performance vs Senators
Alex Ovechkin made no secret of his feelings when reacting to his historic goal in the Washington Capitals’ win over the Ottawa Senators in the 2024-25 NHL season.
It was a memorable moment as the Washington Capitals defeated the Ottawa Senators with an overtime goal from Alex Ovechkin to seal a 1-0 victory, marking yet another chapter of the 39-year-old left wing shining in an NHL season, this time with the Caps as the best team in the Eastern Conference.
Ovechkin broke a record by surpassing Jaromir Jagr for the most goaltenders scored on in NHL history, now totaling 179 after scoring his first career goal against Leevi Merilainen of the Senators. The Capitals star also scored his first overtime goal of the season.
Ovechkin’s accomplishment against Ottawa is a preview of an impressive record that could soon be broken, as the Caps veteran reached a career mark of 874 goals, just 20 shy of tying Wayne Gretzky’s all-time NHL scoring record.
Ovechkin reacts to his historic goal against the Senators
“It’s pretty cool. When you play 20 years, if you have chances, you’ll take it. I knew I had to take the shot as soon as I can because I was sure he (the goaltender) wasn’t ready. He thought I was going to pass the puck back to Sandy. It was a good one, I’ll take it”, Ovechkin admitted minutes after the win over Ottawa.
Ovechkin received praise from his rivals
Ovechkin’s performance has not only amazed NHL fans, but also earned praise from his rivals. Senators center Tim Stützle had a few words for the Capitals star. “He scores goals every year. For someone who loves to watch hockey, it’s always a pleasure to watch him play,”Stützle said.