The accolades keep coming for Alex Ovechkin. The Washington Capitals captain was named the NHL’s First Star of the Week on Monday, less than 24 hours after he broke Wayne Gretzky’s all-time goals record.
Ovechkin is in the midst of a vintage hot streak. The 39-year-old has scored six goals in his last five games, including five goals in last week’s matchups.
Despite missing 16 games earlier this season with a fractured fibula, Ovechkin ranks fourth in the NHL with 42 goals this season. No left winger has found the net more this season.
The Russian has now recorded an NHL record 14 seasons with 40 goals. He trails only Gordie Howe, who racked up 44 goals as a 40-year-old, as the oldest player to reach the benchmark.
The Eastern Conference-leading Capitals had an off day on Monday as they recovered from Sunday’s celebrations. They return to action at Capital One Arena on Thursday to face the Carolina Hurricanes.
• Liam Griffin can be reached at lgriffin@washingtontimes.com.
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