Alex Ovechkin is officially on the board in the 2024-25 season after going the first three games scoreleess.
Ovechkin, 39, scored in front of the net on a(n ugly) tip-in to put the Washington Capitals up 3-1 over the New Jersey Devils in the first period.
The goal is Ovi’s first of the season and came on Jakob Markstrom — his sixth career tally against the Devils goaltender.
Joe Beninati’s call reflected the artistry of the goal, saying, somewhat-excitedly and somewhat-confusedly, “…bounces in!?!?”
John Carlson was credited the primary assist after he sent a slap pass to Ovi, set up just outside the crease. The puck hit Ovechkin’s blade, but instead of going toward the net, it clunked off of the body of Devils defenseman Jonathan Kovacevic and in. Jakob Chychurn was credited with the secondary assist.
Ovechkin immediately celebrated as if he scored, bending down and pumping his fists. He shared a huge smile with his teammates in the goal hug.
8️⃣5️⃣4️⃣ pic.twitter.com/fbVnj8BiKu
— Washington Capitals (@Capitals) October 19, 2024
The goal marks Ovechkin’s 854th goal of his illustrious career, now putting the Capitals captain only 40 away from tying Wayne Gretzky for a share of the NHL’s all-time goals record.
ALEXANDER OVECHKIN HAS ENTERED THE CHAT pic.twitter.com/5WyySX1xiG
— Washington Capitals (@Capitals) October 19, 2024
At this point, Ovi would just need to average only 20 goals over the next two seasons to catch The Great One.
get in, babes, we're going chasin' pic.twitter.com/bvuZkiKGze
— Washington Capitals (@Capitals) October 19, 2024
