History of Alexander Ovechkin in Timeline

Share: FB Share X Share Reddit Share Reddit Share
Alexander Ovechkin

Alexander Ovechkin, nicknamed "The Great 8" and "Ovi", is a Russian professional ice hockey left winger and captain of the Washington Capitals. He is second in all-time NHL goal scoring, behind Wayne Gretzky. Ovechkin holds numerous NHL records, including most power play goals, away game goals, overtime goals, goalies scored upon, and goals with one team. He is one of three players to reach 800 career goals, along with Gretzky and Gordie Howe, solidifying his place as a hockey legend.

1943: Surpassed Bill Durnan's Record

In 2009-10, Ovechkin surpassed the mark of Hall of Fame goaltender Bill Durnan (first four seasons from 1943–44 through 1946–47) and became the first player in NHL history voted a First Team All-Star in each of his first five seasons.

1946: Surpassed Bill Durnan's Record

In 2009-10, Ovechkin surpassed the mark of Hall of Fame goaltender Bill Durnan (first four seasons from 1943–44 through 1946–47) and became the first player in NHL history voted a First Team All-Star in each of his first five seasons.

1965: Left-Winger Leading NHL

Ovechkin led the NHL in points for the first time in 41 seasons that a left-winger led the NHL in points since Bobby Hull led the league with 97 points in 1965–66.

1968: Tim Horton's 3-Point Games at 39+

In 1968, Tim Horton recorded 3-points in consecutive games at 39+ years of age, achieving what Ovechkin would later accomplish.

1975: Mother's World Championship

In 1975, Tatyana Ovechkina, Alexander's mother, became a world champion in basketball.

1976: Mother's Olympic Gold Medal

In 1976, Tatyana Ovechkina, Alexander's mother, won an Olympic gold medal in basketball.

1980: Jean Ratelle's 3-Point Games at 39+

In 1980, Jean Ratelle recorded 3-points in consecutive games at 39+ years of age, achieving what Ovechkin would later accomplish.

1980: Mother's Olympic Gold Medal

In 1980, Tatyana Ovechkina, Alexander's mother, won an Olympic gold medal in basketball.

September 1985: Alexander Ovechkin's birth

Alexander Ovechkin was born on 17 September 1985, which became relevant when the Florida Panthers attempted to draft him early.

September 1985: Ovechkin Born

On 17 September 1985, Alexander Ovechkin was born in Moscow to Soviet athletes.

1995: Last 60-Goal Season

Ovechkin's 60-goal season in 2007-08 was the first since Mario Lemieux and Jaromír Jágr in 1995-96.

1998: Capitals Previous Stanley Cup Finals Appearance

In 1998, the Washington Capitals made their first Stanley Cup Finals appearance, prior to Alexander Ovechkin joining the team.

1999: Last 40 Even-Strength Goals

In 2007-08, Ovechkin became the first NHL player to score at least 40 even-strength goals in one season since Pavel Bure in 1999–2000.

2000: Last 40 Even-Strength Goals

In 2007-08, Ovechkin became the first NHL player to score at least 40 even-strength goals in one season since Pavel Bure in 1999–2000.

2000: Rocket Richard Trophy Back-to-Back seasons

With 110 points (56 goals and 54 assists), Ovechkin finished as runner-up to countryman Evgeni Malkin of the Pittsburgh Penguins for the Art Ross Trophy. Also, Ovechkin won his second consecutive Rocket Richard Trophy, becoming the second player after Bure (2000 and 2001) to win the award in back-to-back seasons.

2001: Professional Career Begins

In 2001, Ovechkin began his professional career with Dynamo Moscow of the Russian Superleague.

2001: Joins Dynamo Moscow

In 2001, Ovechkin began playing in the Russian Super League (RSL) for Dynamo Moscow at the age of 16.

2001: Rocket Richard Trophy Back-to-Back seasons

With 110 points (56 goals and 54 assists), Ovechkin finished as runner-up to countryman Evgeni Malkin of the Pittsburgh Penguins for the Art Ross Trophy. Also, Ovechkin won his second consecutive Rocket Richard Trophy, becoming the second player after Bure (2000 and 2001) to win the award in back-to-back seasons.

2002: World U-17 Hockey Challenge

At the age of 16, Ovechkin played at the 2002 World U-17 Hockey Challenge, where he scored two hat tricks, one against Switzerland and one against the United States, and an assist.

2002: Youngest Player for Russian National Team

At the age of 17, Ovechkin became the youngest skater ever to play for the Russian national team in the Česká Pojišťovna Cup EuroTour tournament in 2002 and also the youngest player to score for the team.

2002: First IIHF Tournament

In 2002, Ovechkin's first IIHF tournament was the World U18 Championship.

2003: World Junior Championships Gold Medal

In 2003, Ovechkin and the Russian team won a gold medal in the World Junior Championships.

2003: Capitals Back to Stanley Cup Playoffs

In 2007-08, Ovechkin helped lead the Capitals back to the Stanley Cup playoffs for the first time since 2003.

2003: Panthers Attempt to Draft Ovechkin

In the 2003 NHL Entry Draft, the Florida Panthers attempted to draft Ovechkin in the ninth round, despite his birthday being two days after the cut-off.

December 2004: World Junior Ice Hockey Championships

Starting on December 25, 2004, Ovechkin was named captain of the junior team in the 2005 World Junior Ice Hockey Championships.

2004: World Cup of Hockey

At the age of 19, Ovechkin was named to the Russian national team for the 2004 World Cup of Hockey, making him the youngest player to play in the tournament.

2004: Remained with Dynamo Moscow

Due to the 2004–05 NHL lockout, Ovechkin remained with Dynamo for one more season.

2004: Drafted by Washington Capitals

In 2004, Ovechkin was selected by the Washington Capitals first overall in the NHL Entry Draft.

2004: Drafted First Overall

In 2004, Ovechkin was selected first overall in the NHL Entry Draft by the Washington Capitals.

2004: Senior Tournament Debut

In 2004, Ovechkin's first senior tournament was the World Championship, and he also played in the World Cup.

January 2005: World Junior Ice Hockey Championships Silver Medal

In January 2005, Ovechkin and his team received the silver medal after losing the gold medal game to Canada on January 4. Ovechkin was named the Best Forward of the tournament.

July 2005: Contract Out Clause Deadline

In July 2005, Ovechkin's contract with Avangard Omsk contained an out clause with a 20 July deadline to maintain NHL eligibility.

August 2005: Signs with Capitals

On 5 August 2005, Ovechkin signed with the Washington Capitals.

October 2005: NHL Debut

On 5 October 2005, Ovechkin played his first game with the Capitals, scoring two goals against the Columbus Blue Jackets.

2005: RSL Title

In 2005, Ovechkin helped Dynamo win the RSL title.

2005: Calder Memorial Trophy

In the 2005–06 season, Ovechkin captured the Calder Memorial Trophy as rookie of the year and finished third overall in league scoring.

2005: Start of NHL Career

Since the start of his NHL career in 2005, Alexander Ovechkin surpassed Jaromir Jagr for most goalies scored on in NHL history, reaching a total of 179 different goalies.

January 2006: First Career Hat Trick

On 13 January 2006, Ovechkin scored his first career hat trick against the Mighty Ducks of Anaheim. Also, on 16 January, he scored "The Goal" against the Phoenix Coyotes. On 1 February, Ovechkin was named NHL Rookie of the Month for January 2006 as well as being named Offensive Player of the Month.

August 2006: Jágr's Admiration for Ovechkin's Goal Scoring

In August 2006, New York Rangers forward Jaromír Jágr expressed admiration for Ovechkin's goal-scoring productivity, stating that Ovechkin's goals are not "flukes" and that he often beats players one-on-one.

October 2006: "Russian machine never breaks"

In October 2006, Ovechkin was struck on the foot by a teammate's wrist shot during practice, but famously told reporters, "I'm okay; Russian machine never breaks."

2006: IIHF World Championships

At the 2006 IIHF World Championships, Ovechkin scored six goals and three assists and was selected to the Media All-Star team.

2006: Roomed with Malkin at Winter Olympics

In 2006, Ovechkin and Malkin roomed together during the Winter Olympics in Turin, Italy, before tensions arose between them.

2006: Created Ovi's Crazy 8's program

In 2006, Ovechkin created Ovi's Crazy 8's, donating Capitals season tickets to Most Valuable Kids, providing access to games for those who wouldn’t normally have the opportunity.

2006: Winter Olympics

In 2006, Ovechkin played for Russia at the Winter Olympics.

2006: Capitals Missed Playoffs

In 2014, the Capitals missed the 2014 playoffs by three points, marking the first time since 2006–07 where Ovechkin and the Capitals missed the playoffs.

2006: Second NHL Season

In the 2006–07 season, Ovechkin completed his second NHL season with 46 goals, 46 assists and 92 points in all 82 games.

January 2007: First NHL All-Star Game

On 24 January 2007, Ovechkin appeared in his first NHL All-Star Game.

August 2007: Reported altercation with Malkin's agent

In August 2007, Ovechkin allegedly punched Malkin's Russian agent, Gennady Ushakov, at a Moscow nightclub, sparking tension between the two players.

October 2007: 100th NHL Goal

On 12 October 2007, Ovechkin scored his 100th NHL goal against Henrik Lundqvist.

January 2008: Signs 13-Year Contract Extension

On 10 January 2008, Ovechkin signed a 13-year contract extension with the Capitals worth $124 million.

January 2008: Took a run at Malkin in Pittsburgh

On January 21, 2008, in Pittsburgh, Ovechkin took a run at Malkin during a game, which could have resulted in a devastating hit.

April 2008: Awards

After the 2007-2008 season ended, Ovechkin was awarded the Lester B. Pearson Award as the most outstanding player voted by the National Hockey League Players' Association (NHLPA) and the Hart Memorial Trophy as the league's MVP.

June 2008: Launched Designer Streetwear

On June 11, 2008, Ovechkin launched his own line of designer streetwear with CCM.

October 2008: Visit to Ailing Grandfather

In October 2008, Ovechkin returned home to Moscow to visit his ailing grandfather, missing only the second game of his career up to that point.

2008: IIHF World Championships Gold Medal

At the 2008 IIHF World Championships, Ovechkin helped lead Russia to the gold medal, finishing with 12 points and being selected to the Media All-Star team.

2008: Led NHL in Goals and Points per Game

From 2008 to 2010, Ovechkin led the NHL in goals per game and points per game for three straight seasons.

2008: Appeared in NHL: Just Like Me and Boys to the Bigs

In 2008, Ovechkin appeared in the films NHL: Just Like Me and Boys to the Bigs as himself.

2008: Criticism over Exuberant After-Goal Celebrations

In 2008, Ovechkin garnered some criticism over his exuberant after-goal celebrations.

2008: Hart Memorial Trophy

In 2008, Ovechkin was awarded the Hart Memorial Trophy honoring the most valuable player in the league.

January 2009: Malkin assisted Ovechkin in SuperSkills Competition

On January 24, 2009, at the SuperSkills Competition, Malkin assisted Ovechkin in his stunt during the Breakaway Challenge, signaling a potential reconciliation.

February 2009: Don Cherry's Criticism

In February 2009, Canadian hockey analyst Don Cherry criticized Ovechkin's after-goal celebrations.

February 2009: 200th NHL Goal

On 5 February 2009, Ovechkin scored his 200th goal, against Jonathan Quick of the Los Angeles Kings, becoming only the fourth player in the NHL to reach the milestone in four seasons.

March 2009: "Hot Stick" Celebration

On March 19, 2009, Ovechkin performed the "hot stick" celebration after scoring his 50th goal, drawing criticism from Tampa Bay's head coach.

July 2009: Named Winter Olympics Ambassador

On July 6, 2009, Ovechkin was named an ambassador for the 2014 Winter Olympics in Sochi, Russia.

November 2009: Upper-Body Injury

In November 2009, Ovechkin suffered an upper-body injury during a game against the Columbus Blue Jackets after colliding with Raffi Torres.

2009: Confirmed altercation with Malkin's agent

In 2009, Ovechkin confirmed that he punched Malkin's agent, Gennady Ushakov, stating "but is okay".

2009: Hart Memorial Trophy

In 2009, Ovechkin was awarded the Hart Memorial Trophy honoring the most valuable player in the league.

January 1, 2010: Start of Ovechkin's Dominance in the 2010s

On January 1, 2010, Ovechkin began his dominant run in the 2010s decade, ultimately becoming the leading goal scorer with 437 goals.

January 2010: Named Capitals' Captain and Reaches 500-Point Milestone

In January 2010, Ovechkin was named captain of the Washington Capitals, becoming the first European to be named captain. Also in January 2010, he reached the 500-point milestone of his NHL career.

2010: IIHF World Championships Finals Loss

After being eliminated in the first round of the NHL playoffs, Ovechkin joined Russia for the 2010 IIHF World Championships, where they lost to the Czech Republic in the finals.

2010: Appeared in "Zaytsev, zhgi! Istoriya shoumena"

In 2010, Ovechkin appeared in the film "Zaytsev, zhgi! Istoriya shoumena" as an actor.

2010: Winter Olympics

In 2010, Ovechkin played for Russia at the Winter Olympics.

2010: Start of the 2010-11 season

In 2010, Ovechkin played halfway into the 2010-11 season when he was featured in one of ESPN's This is SportsCenter commercials

2010: Hart Memorial Trophy Finalist

In 2010, Ovechkin was a finalist for the Hart Memorial Trophy honoring the most valuable player in the league.

2010: Feud raised concerns regarding Olympics

In 2010, concerns were raised on how the feud between Ovechkin and Malkin would affect the league, and the Russian national team at the Winter Olympics in Vancouver.

2010: Winter Olympics Quarterfinals Loss

In the 2010 Winter Olympics, Ovechkin and Team Russia lost to Canada 7–3 in the quarterfinals.

2010: Playoffs loss to the Montreal Canadiens

In the 2010 playoffs, Ovechkin recorded 10 points as the Capitals lost the series in seven games to the eighth-seeded Montreal Canadiens, surrendering a 3–1 series lead in the process.

2010: Decline in Point Production

In the 2010 season, Ovechkin's point production declined.

January 2011: Participated in NHL Winter Classic

In January 2011, Ovechkin and the Capitals participated in the New Year's Day NHL Winter Classic against the Pittsburgh Penguins, with the Capitals winning 3-1.

January 2011: Featured in ESPN's This is SportsCenter commercial

In January 2011, Ovechkin was featured in an ESPN's This is SportsCenter commercial.

August 2011: Move to Bauer Hockey

In August 2011, Ovechkin switched to Bauer Hockey equipment following a decline in his point production.

December 2011: Played 500th NHL Game

In December 2011, Ovechkin played in his 500th NHL game, a 3-2 OT win over the Ottawa Senators, recording an assist.

2011: IIHF World Championships

Ovechkin joined the Russian team for the 2011 IIHF World Championships and failed to score any points.

January 2012: Three-Game Suspension

In January 2012, Ovechkin received a three-game suspension for a hit on Zbynek Michalek and announced he would not attend the 2012 NHL All-Star Game.

2012: Played for Dynamo Moscow during Lockout

During the lockout in the first half of the shortened 2012–13 season, Ovechkin went to play in the KHL and re-joined Dynamo Moscow with his teammate Nicklas Bäckström.

2012: IIHF World Championships Win

Ovechkin played in Russia's last three games of the 2012 IIHF World Championships, recording two goals and two assists as Russia won the tournament.

January 2013: Returned to North America After Lockout

In January 2013, Ovechkin and Backstrom returned to North America after the NHL lockout concluded.

December 2013: Scored 400th Career Goal

In December 2013, Ovechkin scored his 400th career goal in a game against the Carolina Hurricanes, becoming the sixth-fastest player to reach that mark.

2013: Hart Memorial Trophy

In 2013, Ovechkin was awarded the Hart Memorial Trophy honoring the most valuable player in the league.

2013: IIHF World Championships

Ovechkin represented Russia in the 2013 IIHF World Championships after the Capitals were eliminated from the Stanley Cup playoffs, but Russia was defeated by the U.S.

July 2014: Engagement to Maria Kirilenko called off

On July 21, 2014, Maria Kirilenko announced that her wedding with Ovechkin was called off.

October 2014: Orpik and Stamkos on Ovechkin's Playing Style

In October 2014, teammate Brooks Orpik commented on Ovechkin's one-timer, noting its effectiveness despite being predictable. Also in October 2014, Tampa Bay Lightning captain Steven Stamkos highlighted Ovechkin’s combination of skill and physicality.

November 2014: Franchise Point Record

In November 2014, Ovechkin recorded his 826th point in a game against the Calgary Flames, surpassing Peter Bondra for the franchise record.

2014: Russia wins gold at IIHF World Championships

In 2014, Ovechkin participated in the IIHF World Championships where Russia won gold. After the tournament, he requested Vladimir Putin reward the Russian hockey team, drawing criticism due to the perceived insignificance of the World Championship compared to the Olympic gold.

2014: Winter Olympics

In 2014, Ovechkin played for Russia at the Winter Olympics.

2014: Named ambassador for the 2014 Winter Olympics

In 2014, Ovechkin was an ambassador for the Winter Olympics in Sochi, Russia.

2014: Won Richard Trophy but Missed Playoffs

In 2014, Ovechkin won the Maurice "Rocket" Richard Trophy with 51 goals but had a -35 plus-minus rating and the Capitals missed the playoffs.

2014: Capitals Miss Playoffs

In 2014, the Capitals missed the playoffs, which was the first time since then that they had missed them. The Capitals would miss the 2023 playoffs as well.

2014: Winter Olympics Quarterfinals Loss

In the 2014 Winter Olympics, Ovechkin represented Russia and lost to Finland 3–1 in the quarter-final round.

2014: Became an ambassador for the American Special Hockey Association

Since 2014, Ovechkin has been an ambassador for the American Special Hockey Association, supporting individuals with disabilities and promoting ice hockey.

January 2015: Lobbied for a new car at the NHL All-Star Game

In January 2015, at the 2015 NHL All-Star Game, Ovechkin lobbied Honda for a new car to donate to the American Special Hockey Association and received a Honda Accord, which was auctioned off to benefit the charity.

March 2015: Sixth 50-Goal Season

In March 2015, Ovechkin scored his 50th goal of the year in a game against the Carolina Hurricanes, becoming the sixth player in NHL history to have six 50-goal seasons.

July 2015: Quick on Ovechkin's Shooting Skills

In July 2015, Los Angeles Kings goaltender Jonathan Quick described Ovechkin's powerful shot, comparing it to facing a baseball batter due to the puck's speed.

September 2015: Announced engagement to Nastya Shubskaya

On September 11, 2015, Ovechkin announced his engagement to Nastya Shubskaya.

November 2015: Ties and Breaks Sergei Fedorov's Goal Record

In November 2015, Ovechkin tied Sergei Fedorov's record for most goals among Russian-born players with 483 and subsequently broke the record.

2015: Russia wins silver at IIHF World Championships

In 2015, Ovechkin joined the Russian team late in the IIHF World Championships, where Russia won the silver medal.

2015: Hart Memorial Trophy Finalist

In 2015, Ovechkin was a finalist for the Hart Memorial Trophy honoring the most valuable player in the league.

January 2016: 500th Career Goal

In January 2016, Ovechkin scored his 500th career goal in a victory over the Ottawa Senators, becoming the 43rd player to reach the 500-goal plateau and the fifth-fastest to do so.

November 2016: Matthews Comments on "The Goal"

In November 2016, Auston Matthews said that Ovechkin's goal against the Phoenix Coyotes was the best goal he ever saw live.

2016: Received gift from Putin at wedding

In 2016, Ovechkin received a gift from Putin at his wedding and has a personal phone number for the Russian president.

2016: Capitals Clinch Presidents' Trophy

Ovechkin helped the Capitals clinch their second consecutive Presidents' Trophy and third in franchise history.

January 2017: Scored 1,000th Career Point

In January 2017, Ovechkin scored his 1,000th career point in a win over the Pittsburgh Penguins, becoming the 37th player in NHL history to reach 1,000 points with only one team.

January 2017: Declared neutrality between Russians and Americans

In January 2017, Ovechkin stated, "I have a good relationship with Russians and with Americans. So, I'm neutral."

October 2017: Back-to-Back Hat Tricks to Start the Season

In October 2017, Alexander Ovechkin became the first player in 100 years to start the season with back-to-back hat tricks, playing against the Ottawa Senators and Montreal Canadiens.

November 2017: Announced PutinTeam on Instagram

In November 2017, Ovechkin announced PutinTeam on his Instagram account and launched the group's official website, encouraging sign-ups and participation.

November 2017: Started PutinTeam movement

In November 2017, Ovechkin started a movement called PutinTeam in support of Russian President Vladimir Putin during the 2018 Russian presidential election, emphasizing it as support for his country rather than politics.

2017: Named One of 100 Greatest NHL Players

In 2017, Ovechkin was named one of the 100 Greatest NHL Players of all time.

2017: Switched Back to CCM

In the 2017-18 season, Ovechkin switched back to CCM equipment.

January 2018: Ovechkin Records 500th Career Assist

In January 2018, Alexander Ovechkin recorded his 500th career assist on a goal by Nicklas Bäckström in a game against the Florida Panthers.

January 2018: 500th Assist

On January 25, 2018, Ovechkin recorded his 500th career assist on a Nicklas Bäckström goal.

June 2018: Celebrated Stanley Cup victory

Following the Capitals' 2018 Stanley Cup victory, Ovechkin participated in celebrations, including swimming in the fountains at the Georgetown waterfront with the Cup on June 9, 2018. The summer of 2018 was dubbed "The Summer of Ovi."

August 2018: Birth of first son

In August 2018, Ovechkin and his wife had a son, named after Ovechkin's late brother.

October 2018: Pass to T.J. Oshie

On October 22, 2018, Ovechkin passed to T.J. Oshie rather than score the hat trick for himself.

November 2018: Applauding Carey Price

On November 19, 2018, Ovechkin applauded Carey Price's sprawling stop, showing respect for the goaltender's effort.

December 2018: Fastest to 5,000 Shots & 23rd Hat Trick

In December 2018, Alexander Ovechkin became the fastest player in NHL history to take 5,000 shots on goal and recorded his 23rd career hat trick, passing Pavel Bure for most by a Russian-born player.

2018: Supported Vladimir Putin in the Russian presidential election

In 2018, Ovechkin started a movement called PutinTeam in support of Russian President Vladimir Putin during the 2018 Russian presidential election.

2018: Stanley Cup and Conn Smythe Trophy

In 2018, Ovechkin won the Stanley Cup for the first time, and was awarded the Conn Smythe Trophy for most valuable player in the 2018 playoffs.

2018: NHL All-Star Game Skills Competition

In 2018, Ovechkin won the hardest shot title at the National Hockey League All-Star Game skills competition, recording a shot over 100 mph.

2018: Kremlin supported PutinTeam

In 2018, a Kremlin-supported public-relations firm, IMA-Consulting reportedly held a $600,000 contract to promote the 2018 Russian presidential elections, while Ovechkin has claimed that the idea for PutinTeam was all his and that the group is non-political in its nature.

January 2019: All-Star Captaincy and Skipped Game

In January 2019, Alexander Ovechkin was named a captain for the upcoming NHL All-Star Game but chose to skip it to rest, resulting in an automatic one-game suspension.

April 2019: Gretzky cheering Ovechkin on

In April 2019, Wayne Gretzky stated he is cheering for Ovechkin to break his record.

November 2019: Ovechkin's 24th Career Hat Trick

In November 2019, Ovechkin recorded his 24th career hat trick in a game against the Detroit Red Wings, surpassing Jari Kurri for 10th most hat tricks in NHL history.

2019: Tied Single Tournament Goals Record

In 2019, Cole Caufield matched Ovechkin's record of 14 goals in a single tournament at the IIHF World U18 Championships.

December 31, 2019: End of Ovechkin's Dominant Decade

By December 31, 2019, Alexander Ovechkin concluded the 2010s as the leading goal scorer with 437 goals, solidifying his legacy.

January 24, 2020: Ovechkin Named to NHL All-Decade Team

On January 24, 2020, Ovechkin was named to the NHL all-decade team for the 2010s, recognizing his outstanding performance as the leading goal scorer during that period.

May 2020: Birth of second son

In May 2020, Ovechkin and his wife had a second son.

September 2020: Malkin gave a speech at Ovechkin's 35th birthday party

In September 2020, Malkin gave a speech at Ovechkin's 35th birthday party, indicating that the two are close friends again.

2020: Shortened Season Impact on Goals

In 2020, due to the COVID-19 pandemic shortening the season, it marked the first time in Alexander Ovechkin's NHL career where he did not score at least 30 goals, finishing with 24.

May 2021: Reportedly an investor in the Washington Spirit

In May 2021, Ovechkin was reportedly an investor in the Washington Spirit, a professional team in the National Women's Soccer League.

June 2021: Studying for Doctor of Sciences

By June 2021, Ovechkin was studying for and close to obtaining a Doctor of Sciences in Pedagogical Sciences.

July 2021: Contract Extension with Capitals

In July 2021, Alexander Ovechkin signed a five-year, $47.5 million contract extension with the Washington Capitals.

2021: Price's Injury

In 2021, Canadiens goaltender Carey Price sustained a knee injury and had multiple setbacks in his recovery.

February 2022: Called for peace after the Russian invasion of Ukraine

On February 25, 2022, following the Russian invasion of Ukraine, Ovechkin called for peace without mentioning Russia or Ukraine directly.

February 2022: Washington Spirit sold

Sportico reported in February 2022 that he might not have formally completed the process to acquire the stake, and that even if he had, it was unclear whether he retained his stake after the club was sold

March 2022: Ovechkin Moves to Third All-Time in Goals Scored

In March 2022, Alexander Ovechkin scored his 767th career NHL goal, moving him into third place for goals scored all-time in the NHL, passing Jaromír Jágr.

April 2022: Fist Bump to Carey Price

On April 16, 2022, Ovechkin showed respect and admiration for Canadiens goaltender Carey Price by giving him a fist bump from across their respective benches during a stoppage of play.

May 2022: Reiterated support for Putin

In May 2022, Ovechkin reiterated his support for Putin and retained the Russian president on his Instagram profile photo.

June 2022: Signed a one-game contract with FC Dynamo Moscow

In June 2022, Ovechkin signed a one-game contract with FC Dynamo Moscow, in a friendly against FC Amkal Moscow, scored a goal, and wore number 3 in honor of his father.

November 2022: Most Goals with One Team

In November 2022, Alexander Ovechkin scored his 787th goal with the Washington Capitals, setting a new NHL record for most goals with one team.

January 2023: Ovechkin Ties Mike Gartner for Most 30-Goal Seasons

In January 2023, Alexander Ovechkin tied Mike Gartner for having the most 30-goal seasons, recording his 17th 30-goal season.

December 2023: Ovechkin Reaches 1,500 Career Points

In December 2023, Alexander Ovechkin recorded his 1,500th point, becoming the 16th player in NHL history to reach the milestone.

February 2024: Most Empty-Net Goals All-Time

In February 2024, Alexander Ovechkin scored his 57th career empty-net goal, surpassing Wayne Gretzky for the most all-time.

October 2024: Ovechkin Records 700th Career Assist

In October 2024, Alexander Ovechkin recorded his 700th career assist, becoming the 60th player in NHL history to reach the mark.

2024: Over 5,700 Individuals Saw Free Game Through Ovi's Crazy 8's

As of 2024, more than 5,700 individuals have had a chance to see a game free of charge through Ovechkin's Ovi's Crazy 8's program

January 11, 2025: Ovechkin Reaches 20 Consecutive 20-Goal Seasons

On January 11, 2025, Alexander Ovechkin became the second player in NHL history to record 20 consecutive 20-goal seasons, joining Gordie Howe.

February 2025: Carbery Remarks on Ovechkin's Passing Abilities

On February 9, 2025, Capitals head coach Spencer Carbery described Ovechkin's passing abilities, remarking, "Everybody is so focused on his shot when he gets the puck, you’re always thinking shot, shot, shot. But he’s got that look-off pass too, the shot-pass, I call it".

March 2025: Partnered with Hockey Fights Cancer

In March 2025, Ovechkin announced that he would be partnering up with Hockey Fights Cancer and the V Foundation to raise money and awareness for pediatric cancer for every goal he socres as he closed in on breaking the all time goal-scoring record.

Mentioned in this timeline

Basketball
Vladimir Putin
Ukraine
Instagram
Wayne Gretzky
Don Cherry
Los Angeles
Florida

Trending

Will Ospreay
Tamra Judge
Yosuke Watanuki
DeMar DeRozan
Jason Isaacs
Laverne Cox
Adam Butler (American football)
Baltimore Ravens
Tristan Thompson
Cincinnati Bengals

Popular

Simone Biles
Elon Musk
LeBron James
Jasmine Crockett
Michael Jordan
Elvis Presley
Kobe Bryant
Pam Bondi
Greta Thunberg
Donald Trump
Discover More