Alexander Ovechkin, the captain of the Washington Capitals, has a notable connection to Gazgolder on YouTube. He once shared a playful thought: if Dynamo Moscow competed in the National Hockey League, he would consider wearing that jersey for the chance to challenge himself in hockey’s premier league.
He reflected on loyalty and dreams, questioning whether Dynamo Moscow holds greater meaning than Washington because the city and the team are part of his roots in Russia. Dynamo has always been a family to him. He notes that he has never played for another club in Russia, and while the dream of testing himself in the NHL persists, he explains the appeal of trying to play in what many consider the world’s best league. He also expresses regret that Dynamo did not reach that milestone, because he would have welcomed the opportunity to play for them on that stage, where the dream might have become a reality. [Citation: Dynamo Moscow affiliation and Ovechkin’s public statements]
Ovechkin was selected by Washington in the first round of the 2004 draft. He spent 18 seasons with the Capitals, becoming captain in 2010. He helped the franchise win its first Stanley Cup in 2018, marking a historic achievement for the team.
To date, Ovechkin has accumulated a substantial goal total in the NHL. He sits among the league’s most prolific scorers, with goals edging toward the hundreds and continuing to be a benchmark in the sport. His scoring record places him near the top of the all-time lists, reflecting a career defined by prolific production and longevity. [Citation: NHL records and career milestones]
Last season, Ovechkin appeared in 74 regular-season games, recording 42 goals and 33 assists. Despite his strong individual output, the Capitals did not advance to the playoff field that year. [Citation: 2023-24 Capitals season recap]
Spencer Carbury, a former head coach of the Capitals, commented on Ovechkin’s drive and determination as the team looks ahead to upcoming seasons with playoff aspirations. [Citation: Coaching perspective on Ovechkin’s playoff ambitions]