Ovechkin ascends to the fifth spot among Russian players during NHL playoffs

Unlocking Ovechkin's Playoff Legacy

Washington's star Alexander Ovechkin is carving his name deep into NHL history, not just for his incredible regular season feats, but also for his unmatched playoff performances. His most recent feat? Scoring his first playoff overtime goal, clinching Game 1 of the 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs against Montreal. This historic goal came after the Capitals almost squandered a 2-0 lead in the third period, securing a much-needed 3-2 victory and avoiding a series-opening loss.

The Unyielding Captain

At 39, Ovechkin has played his 153rd playoff game, putting him in fifth place among Russian hockey players in NHL history. Despite his advanced age, he’s rarely been sidelined due to injuries and has managed to compete in the playoffs consistently throughout his twenty-season career. His endurance is a testament to his remarkable physical fitness and the consistent playoff appearances of the "Capitals" over the years.

In the second game of the series against the "Canadiens," Ovechkin contributed 18 minutes of play, four shots, three hits, and a +1 rating. Though he didn't score, his presence was significant, as Washington won 3-1, taking a 2-0 lead in the series.

The Road Ahead

The third game is set for April 25 (early morning of the 26th in Moscow). If the "Capitals" prevail again, Ovechkin will edge closer to the top of Russian playoff rankings. He needs just five more games to surpass Pavel Datsyuk and eleven to catch up with Sergei Zubov. Such victories would not only bolster Ovechkin's personal statistics but also solidify the "Capitals" future in the playoffs.

👇 What's more?

Ovechkin's dental drama: Learn about the Washington player's protective mask after losing teeth during the first game of the series against Montreal.
Malkin's Olympic dreams: Discover Evgeni Malkin's aspirations of representing Russia at the Olympics.
Media-friendly lineup: Get the scoop on the possibility of Ovechkin and Mostovoy playing in the same line in a media hockey game.

Alexander Ovechkin continues to break records and redefine playoff expectations, ensuring his place in the hearts of hockey fans worldwide. His astounding career, marked by his tenacity and dedication, is a testament to his exceptional skill and passion for the game.

Bookmakers are inclined to favor the Capitals in their Stanley Cup Playoffs series despite the statistics, given Ovechkin's consistent playoff performances and the team's earlier victories. The 26th game, scheduled for April 25, could potentially see Ovechkin surpassing Pavel Datsyuk in the list of Russian players with the most playoff games. Despite his advanced age, Ovechkin continues to defy the odds in sports hockey, remarkably staying injury-free and maintaining a notable presence in the NHL.