Alex Ovechkin became the Washington Capitals all-time leader in game played (984) in Monday’s loss against the Columbus Blue Jackets. Ovechkin surpassed fan favorite Calle Johansson, who played in 983 games in a Capitals’ uniform.
Ovechkin scored the Capitals’ lone goal on Monday night, giving him an NHL-lead 39 on the season. The goal was his 597th career NHL goal, putting him three shy of becoming just the 20th player in NHL history to reach 600 goals.
Alex Ovechkin is playing in his 984th game for the Capitals, passing Calle Johansson for the most games played in franchise history. pic.twitter.com/4QGKuQ4bLx
— CapitalsPR (@CapitalsPR) February 27, 2018
The most decorated skater in franchise history, Ovechkin already owns the Capitals’ records in goals, points (1,106), game-winners (100), and hat tricks (20). He is currently second in assists with 509 behind current teammate Nicklas Backstrom, who has 570.
Through his NHL career that started in 2005, Ovechkin has won three Hart (MVP) trophies and six Maurice “Rocket” Richard trophies (most goals in a season). He was named Rookie of the Year in 2006. He also has the unique distinction of being named to the all-NHL team at two separate positions – left wing and right wing — in one season (2012-13).
He is considered one of the top-two players of his generation. In fact, the only accomplishment that has eluded “The Great 8” in his NHL career is Lord Stanley. While the national spotlight has been turned away some from Ovechkin and the Capitals, the expectations remain of a championship contender. Washington currently trails Philadelphia by one point for first place in the Metropolitan Division with 19 games remaining in the regular season.
