Alex Ovechkin’s Sons Introduce Him at Final Home Opener of Hall of Fame Career
The Washington Capitals captain was honored before his team's 5-3 victory over the Pittsburgh Penguins.
Alex Ovechkin's sons, Sergei and Ilya, had the honor of introducing their father onto the ice for his final home opener with the Washington Capitals. The Russian star received a standing ovation from the crowd before the Capitals secured a 5-3 victory against the Pittsburgh Penguins on Wednesday night.
Ovechkin, 41, announced earlier this week that the current season will be his last in the NHL. "It was pretty cool moment," Ovechkin said of the introduction. "Huge crowd, kids announce my name. It was a special moment."
The NHL's all-time leading goal scorer did not add to his career total of 929 goals during Wednesday's game. Notably, Ovechkin was not on the ice during an extended offensive zone possession for the Penguins late in the game when their goalie was pulled.
This marked the 101st meeting between Ovechkin and Pittsburgh star Sidney Crosby, including playoff games. For only the 11th time in their matchups, neither player registered a point. Crosby finished the game with a minus-4 rating, having been on the ice for all four of Washington's even-strength goals.
The Capitals have built a roster with considerable depth, allowing Ovechkin to not necessarily play every second of the team's power-play time. One such power-play goal was scored by Ryan Leonard from the left circle, an area where Ovechkin has historically been a dominant presence.
Despite the team's evolving dynamics, Ovechkin remained the focal point of the evening. He was the final player introduced, with his sons handling the honors. "I had no idea any of that was happening," said Capitals coach Spencer Carbery. "I think they nailed that moment. Special for I think everybody in the building."
Ovechkin recorded two shots on goal and was on the ice when Anthony Beauvillier scored the Capitals' opening goal just 23 seconds into the game.
"It's been such an incredible journey. Cool to see his kids down there," commented Tom Wilson, who contributed a goal and two assists for the Capitals. "He's a legend in this city, so I think everyone had a big smile. You get chills watching him come out."