Alex Ovechkin is again demonstrating why he’s among the all-time greats in NHL history. At age 39, the Washington Capitals captain is leading his team with power, passion, and accuracy throughout the 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs — and making surprising headlines off the ice.
Ovechkin’s Playoff Dominance Continues
In the Capitals’ 4-1 first-round sweep over the Montreal Canadiens, Ovechkin had a standout performance, tallying four goals and an assist in five games. The dominant effort not only propelled Washington to the second round but also advanced Ovechkin further in the record books.
He matched Mario Lemieux at 12th all-time in the NHL playoff goal category with 76 and became just one of several to score 30 power-play goals, joining legends Nicklas Lidstrom and Joe Pavelski. These marks illustrate his upper-tier class and dependability in pressure situations.
Ovechkin is not only scoring. His physical play is still affecting games. With over 660 hits recorded throughout his postseason career, Alex Ovechkin stands alone as the NHL’s all-time leader in playoff hits—a testament to his relentless physical style and enduring impact on the game. This blend of scoring ability and physicality makes him one of the most well-rounded players the league has ever seen.
The Road to a Second Stanley Cup
The Capitals’ next test is a difficult one — a second-round series against the speedy and skilled Carolina Hurricanes. Game 1 of the series started on May 6, and Washington will need all of Ovechkin’s leadership and playoff savvy to beat this team.
Since capturing the Stanley Cup in 2018, the Capitals have not been as successful in the playoffs. Yet this season seems different. Ovechkin’s playoff performance remains as sharp as ever, and the energized lineup around him is ready to rise to the occasion. Washington fans now think another run at a title might be feasible.
SportSnip Analysis: Most players in their late 30s retire to the bench, but Ovechkin keeps playing at an elite level. It is a rare talent for a player to be able to do what he does, and it could be the difference that ensures Washington’s playoff success.
Off the Ice: A Presidential Mix-Up
Outside the rink, Ovechkin was perhaps unexpectedly in the limelight with a White House press conference appearance on May 6. At a meeting of President Donald Trump with Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, and while reciting famous Canadian NHL players, the President inadvertently made mention of Alex Ovechkin — albeit, naturally enough, Russian.
The comedic mistake viralized, spreading rapidly in sports and political news. The moment sparked plenty of reactions on social media, highlighting not just the humor but also Ovechkin’s status as a globally recognized sports icon. From the ice rink to the presidential blunder, his name rings out everywhere.
Why Ovechkin’s 2025 Playoff Performance Matters
Ovechkin is pursuing something beyond another Stanley Cup. Each time he scores and each game he plays contributes to a legacy, which has already made him one of hockey’s all-time greats.
This postseason push has the potential to shape how history will recall him — not merely as a goal-scorer, but as a whole leader, record-breaker, and inspiration for generations to come.
Final Thoughts
Alex Ovechkin’s 2025 playoff journey is proving to be far more than just a late-career surge—it’s a powerful continuation of his legendary legacy. He continues to be one of the NHL’s most formidable and impactful forces on the ice. With the Capitals continuing to push deep into the playoffs, Ovechkin continues to be the team’s center, balancing leadership, power, and historical skill.
Whether he is rewriting record books or making news in unexpected terms, one thing is certain — Alex Ovechkin is still the symbol of hockey perfection.
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