Alex Ovechkin got a rare warm reception in Pittsburgh after enduring nearly two decades of boos.
During the first TV timeout of the Capitals-Penguins game, the Caps’ biggest rival aired a tribute video over the PPG Paints Arena jumbotron honoring Ovechkin for breaking the NHL goals record.
The video began with highlights of both Ovi and Sidney Crosby from earlier in their careers. It concluded with the Capitals captain’s 895th career goal scored on April 6, making him the NHL’s new goals king.
Penguins fans roared and gave Ovechkin a standing ovation after his milestone goal aired. “Congrats, Alex Ovechkin,” a graphic read with the number 895 in the background.
Ovechkin, sitting on top of the Capitals bench, jumped off and skated out to center ice where he waved to the crowd. The Penguins faithful responded with loud “Ovi” chants.
“Never thought we’d see the day,” said the Capitals X account.
Me neither.
