In the last home opener of Alex Ovechkin's NHL career, the Washington Capitals' captain took in the moment with the help of his two sons. Ilya and Sergei Ovechkin were given the microphone to announce their father in player introductions Wednesday, setting the stage for a 5-3 Washington win over the Pittsburgh Penguins.
"I was talking to one of my kids about it before that, and he was nervous as well," Ovechkin said. "I said don't be nervous, just say it. And it was pretty cool."
The 41-year-old said he hopes this will be a season of "awesome memories" after announcing this week he would retire after the season. His role with the Capitals is changing, becoming more complementary. Ovechkin, held without a point, took only three shifts in the third period and was not on the ice for an empty-net situation at the end of the game. Coach Spencer Carbery said Ovechkin understands the team's goals: "Anytime I explain, here's why we're doing it... he's like, 'I'm all in.'" The Capitals want to send their franchise legend off with another Stanley Cup.
The night was tougher for Penguins captain Sidney Crosby, who was a minus-4, his worst single-game plus/minus against the Capitals in his career. Wednesday marked the 101st meeting between Crosby and Ovechkin, including 25 playoff games. Both captains joined Gordie Howe, Alex Delvecchio, Stan Mikita and Steve Yzerman as the only players in NHL history to play 22 seasons with one franchise. The longtime rivals have built a friendship over time, and Ovechkin said he plans an equipment swap with Crosby at some point this season: "For sure I'll keep something from him."
Source: ESPN NHL · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing