Alex Ovechkin would win his record ninth Maurice ‘Rocket’ Richard Trophy if the 2019-20 season does not restart due to the coronavirus pandemic. The Russian machine is tied with David Pastrnak with 48 goals.

The 34-year-old’s journey to the top spot in the league was fueled by late-season hot streak which saw the Russian forward score 14 goals in seven January and February games, including three hat tricks.

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The race for the Rocket Richard Trophy has been TIGHT this season! 😲 pic.twitter.com/ydFsGx7WdZ

— NHL (@NHL) April 3, 2020

This is so cool.

Auston Matthews started the season strong. Then Pastrnak happened. After overtaking Matthews, the Bruins’ Czech superstar led almost every day until February when Ovechkin caught aflame. As the season paused in March, Ovechkin and Pastrnak were tied at 48 while Matthews sat one behind with 47. It’s one of the closest races in years.

I encourage Caps fans to look away at Mika Zibanejad, who became a part of the conversation after scoring five goals against the Capitals on March 5.

Headline photo courtesy of @NHL