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On the evening of the NHL entry draft in June 2004, the Washington Capitals’ director of amateur scouting, Ross Mahoney, praised Alex Ovechkin, the team’s first overall pick. “He’s definitely a very, very, very good player,” Mahoney stated, pondering how good he would eventually become. Fast forward nearly 21 years, and Ovechkin has made history. During a game against the New York Islanders, he scored his 895th goal, surpassing Wayne Gretzky’s long-standing NHL scoring record that had remained unbroken since March 29, 1999.
Had circumstances been slightly different back in 2004, this milestone may have been celebrated a year earlier. The subsequent NHL season, 2004-05, was canceled due to a labor dispute between the league and the players’ union, forcing Ovechkin to remain in Russia, where he played 37 games for Dynamo Moscow. It wasn’t until the fall of 2005 that he made his NHL debut with the Capitals, and he quickly showcased his immense talent, scoring two goals in his first game and finishing his rookie season with a remarkable 52 goals and 54 assists.
Among his many achievements that season, one goal stood out as particularly memorable: during a game against the Phoenix Coyotes, Ovechkin scored while sliding on his back, facing away from the net. “It was unbelievable,” recalled NHL star Auston Matthews, who attended that game as an eight-year-old. “Nobody really cheered; they couldn’t wrap their heads around what just happened. It was pretty crazy.” The legendary Wayne Gretzky, coaching the Coyotes, shared those sentiments of disbelief.
Ovechkin’s career reached a pivotal moment in 2018 when he helped the Capitals clinch their first Stanley Cup title, fulfilling the high expectations that had followed him throughout his 12 seasons prior. His jubilation during the Cup celebration was unmatched, underscoring his dedication and love for the game. The victory also heightened the comparison between him and fellow superstar Sidney Crosby, who entered the league one season later. Though their playing styles differ, both players have accumulated similar point totals throughout their careers. Prior to Ovechkin’s record-breaking achievement, Crosby, with three championships, had been frequently regarded as the more accomplished player. Ovechkin’s goal record may not completely tip the scales, but it positions them as equals in the narrative of NHL greatness.
However, off the ice, Ovechkin’s career has been marred by political controversy, particularly his vocal support for Russian President Vladimir Putin. In 2017, he established the “Putin Team,” a movement aimed at uniting those who admire Putin’s leadership. Ovechkin has openly acknowledged his relationship with Putin, which has drawn scrutiny given the political implications. In 2022, following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, Ovechkin chose to tread carefully, expressing a desire for peace without criticizing the Kremlin. In contrast, other Russian athletes, like Artemi Panarin, have been more outspoken against Putin’s actions, highlighting the complex landscape for athletes from the region.
As the intersection of sports and politics has evolved, so too has the public’s perception of athletes like Ovechkin. The previous ability to compartmentalize sports from broader societal issues seems increasingly archaic. Even Gretzky, once untouchable in his status, has faced backlash due to his association with controversial figures. Ovechkin remains a formidable presence on the ice, yet the lasting legacy of his career will be shaped not only by his athletic achievements but also by the political narrative that accompanies them.
While his remarkable goal-scoring ability is undeniable, the question of how he will be remembered in the annals of history remains open. Gretzky, commenting on Ovechkin’s talents even in the early days, stated he was “a phenomenal player” deserving of accolades. As time progresses, Ovechkin’s legacy will certainly include not only his extraordinary achievements but also the complexities of his persona that extend beyond the rink.
Source
www.theguardian.com