In an impressive display of skill and experience, Alex Ovechkin reached a significant milestone in his illustrious NHL career on Monday night. In his 20th season, the 39-year-old superstar scored his first-ever playoff overtime goal, propelling the Washington Capitals to a thrilling 3-2 victory over the Montreal Canadiens and securing a pivotal 1-0 series lead.
Ovechkin’s clutch goal came in dramatic fashion as he capitalized on a crafty airborne centering pass from Anthony Beauvillier. Positioned just outside the crease, Ovechkin skillfully redirected the puck into a wide-open net, stunning Habs goaltender Sam Montembeault in the process. This moment not only sealed the win but also marked Ovechkin’s second goal of the night, contributing to his impressive record of 10 multi-goal playoff games throughout his career.
The emotion was palpable as Ovi celebrated his game-winner, pointing enthusiastically to his family nestled by the glass while his teammates surged off the bench to congratulate him in a jubilant mobbing along the boards.
What’s even more remarkable is that this overtime goal was Ovechkin’s first in 152 career playoff games, including 46 that required extra time. Having made 16 playoff appearances over his two decades with the Capitals, he finally etched this elusive achievement into his storied legacy. “Good things happen when you go to the net,” Ovechkin mentioned in his post-game remarks, which perfectly encapsulates the ethos of a goal-scorer like him.
The Capitals were in dire need of Ovechkin’s timely strike after watching a two-goal lead evaporate in the third period. The sequence leading to his goal began with a critical icing call against the Canadiens just over two minutes into the overtime period. Dylan Strome stepped up to take the offensive zone faceoff, setting up a designed play to find Ovechkin. Although Ovi’s initial shot didn’t come quite as planned, it bounced fortuitously to Beauvillier near the left post. Despite Montembeault’s valiant effort to stop Beauvillier’s shot, he couldn’t contain the follow-up, allowing the crafty winger to dish a perfect pass to Ovechkin, who was charging toward the net.
This electrifying moment was Ovechkin’s 74th career playoff goal, placing him alongside Joe Pavelski for 13th on the NHL’s all-time list.
Ovechkin was undoubtedly the standout player on the ice, contributing across the board with points (2 goals, 1 assist) on all three of the Capitals’ goals. His performance also featured 4 shots on goal, 9 individual shot attempts, and an impressive 7 hits, all within just 16:45 of ice time. His efforts earned him the honor of being named the game’s First Star, a testament to his enduring talent and competitive spirit.
As the playoffs progress, the Capitals look to their veteran leader to continue delivering in moments that matter most, proving that while records may accumulate, the drive for victory remains evergreen in Ovechkin’s unyielding quest for postseason glory.
