The Washington Capitals are gearing up for the upcoming season, and a recent revelation by former Capitals center Evgeny Kuznetsov has captured attention. Kuznetsov, currently playing for SKA Saint Petersburg in the KHL, expressed his desire to see Alex Ovechkin break the NHL’s goal-scoring record. According to Kuznetsov, this achievement would not only solidify Ovechkin’s legacy but also relieve him of the immense pressure he has been under. Kuznetsov, speaking to the Russian news outlet Ivestia, highlighted that pressure is something all great athletes face. He drew comparisons to legendary figures like Tom Brady, Kobe Bryant, and Michael Jordan, noting that each of them had their unique personality and approach to their sport. In Kuznetsov’s view, Ovechkin, who is renowned for his goal-scoring prowess, is no different.
Ovechkin himself, when asked about his pursuit of the record, responded in his typical fashion, staying focused on the task ahead. He is expected to join the Capitals for training camp at MedStar Capitals Iceplex this month as the new season approaches.
While the Capitals and their fans are excited about the potential milestone for Ovechkin, the hockey community is also mourning the tragic loss of Johnny Gaudreau, a beloved player who recently passed away. The impact of Gaudreau’s death has been felt across the league, with teams from Philadelphia, Ohio, and Calgary holding moments of silence in his honor. Capitals players, both past and present, have also paid tribute to Gaudreau.
One of the most heartfelt tributes came from Andrew Mangiapane, a player the Capitals acquired this offseason. Mangiapane had a close bond with Gaudreau, having played alongside him for five seasons with the Calgary Flames. In a touching Instagram post, Mangiapane expressed his sorrow, saying, “There are no words, we’re all going to miss you. Love you little guy.”
Additionally, Capitals players Ryan Leonard and Charlie Lindgren, who were teammates with Gaudreau during the 2024 IIHF World Championship in Czechia, also reflected on his legacy. During that tournament, Gaudreau became the USA’s all-time leading point scorer with 43 points, though the team was eventually eliminated by Czechia in the quarterfinals. Despite the loss, Gaudreau’s achievement remains a significant milestone in his career, further highlighting the immense talent and impact he had on the game.
As the Capitals prepare for the upcoming season, the team and its fans are balancing the excitement of potential records with the sadness of losing a beloved figure in the hockey world. Ovechkin’s pursuit of the NHL goal-scoring record will undoubtedly be a major storyline, but the memory of Johnny Gaudreau will also be a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and the deep connections within the hockey community.
