Aug 12, 2013
Alex Ovechkin, the 27-year old wing from the Capitals, has just recently won his 3rd Hart Memorial Trophy. With so many great things already accomplished, one can only imagine where Alex will finish at the end of his career.
The idea that Ovechkin could surpass Wayne Gretzky is highly unlikely, as Gretzky completely crushed the NHL for too many years. It’s certainly possible for Ovechkin to finish 2nd though. Assuming he plays until he’s in his late thirties, he will have about 10 more years to pad his resume before retiring.
Ovechkin is currently the best player in hockey. Some could (and do) argue Penguins’ Sidney Crosby is the best, but injuries are a part of the game and Crosby has come up short because of them. Ovechkin has a higher career point total and scores more PPG. Though Crosby has the edge in assists, Ovechkin doesn’t have the luxury of passing to Malkin.
He led the league in 2012 in shots, goals, and PPG, showing he’s a completely unstoppable force. What gives him the edge in all of these areas is his motivation and intensity. Alex is a menace on the ice, brutally opposing his will on enemy teams each night. His ability to put pressure on defenses at a high level consistently makes him one of the all-time greats.
Though it’s unclear where Alex Ovechkin will end up among the all-time NHL legends, it’s safe to say that if he keeps playing like he did last year, he’ll be in the top-5. And if he keeps getting better, who knows, maybe he even passes Gretzky. If his heart stays in it, I wouldn’t bet against him.
