Alex Ovechkin

Alex Ovechkin was selected as the first overall pick in the 2004 NHL Entry Draft by the Washington Capitals. This marked the beginning of his NHL career and set high expectations for the Russian forward, who had already made a significant impact in international play. Ovechkin was recognized for his scoring ability, physical play, and leadership potential, qualities that he would demonstrate throughout his career with the Capitals.

During the 2006 Winter Olympics in Turin, Italy, Alex Ovechkin scored his first Olympic goal for Team Russia in a game against Sweden. Despite being his first participation in the Olympics, Ovechkin quickly made his presence felt with his characteristic scoring ability. His performance helped the Russian team advance and showcased Ovechkin on an international stage, further solidifying his reputation as one of the world's top players.

On September 12, 2006, Alex Ovechkin signed a 13-year, $124 million contract extension with the Washington Capitals. This was a record-breaking contract at the time, indicating the team's commitment to Ovechkin as the franchise's cornerstone player. The contract was the richest in NHL history then, making Ovechkin one of the highest-paid players in the league. It reflected his immense value to the Capitals both on and off the ice.

In 2008, Alex Ovechkin won his first Hart Memorial Trophy as the NHL's Most Valuable Player. He scored 65 goals and 112 points during the regular season, leading the league in both categories. This achievement was a significant milestone in his career, cementing his status as one of the top players in the league. Ovechkin's dynamic playing style and leadership on the ice were key factors in the Washington Capitals' successful season.

Alex Ovechkin scored one of his most memorable goals on December 20, 2008, against the Phoenix Coyotes. The goal, now known simply as 'The Goal', was scored while Ovechkin was on his back, sliding across the ice, and managed to flip the puck over the goalie into the net. It was a testament to his incredible skill and agility, and it became an iconic highlight in NHL history, often replayed and admired for its uniqueness.

On November 23, 2009, Alex Ovechkin was named the captain of the Washington Capitals. This decision was made by the team's management to enhance leadership and inspire the team with Ovechkin's passion and commitment. As captain, Ovechkin became the face of the franchise, representing the Capitals during games and off the ice. His leadership was a key factor in the team’s successes, culminating in their first Stanley Cup victory in 2018.

Alex Ovechkin played in his first NHL Winter Classic on January 1, 2010, representing the Washington Capitals against the Pittsburgh Penguins at Heinz Field in Pittsburgh. The Winter Classic is an annual outdoor game that has become one of the league's premier events. Ovechkin's participation in the 2010 Winter Classic added to the game's allure, as he faced off against rival Sidney Crosby in a matchup that captured the attention of hockey fans around the world.

Alex Ovechkin and the Washington Capitals won the Stanley Cup on June 7, 2018, defeating the Vegas Golden Knights in five games. This victory was a crowning achievement in Ovechkin's career, as he had long been criticized for not winning a championship despite his personal accolades. Ovechkin scored 15 goals during the playoffs and was awarded the Conn Smythe Trophy as the most valuable player during the playoffs, finally lifting the Cup as captain.

Alex Ovechkin reached the milestone of 600 career NHL goals on February 14, 2019, in a game against the Winnipeg Jets. He became just the 20th player in the history of the NHL to achieve this feat. This achievement further solidified his status as one of the greatest goal scorers in the history of the sport, continuing a trend of consistent excellence throughout his career. Ovechkin reached 600 goals in fewer games than many others, showcasing his prolific scoring ability.

On November 12, 2021, Alex Ovechkin scored his 742nd career goal, surpassing Brett Hull to become the fourth-highest goal scorer in NHL history at that time. This achievement marked another major milestone in Ovechkin's illustrious career, as he continued his quest to climb higher on the all-time goals list and chase Wayne Gretzky's record. Ovechkin's consistent goal-scoring ability has been a defining feature of his career, earning him recognition as one of the greatest of all time.