A Lot Has Changed for Alex Ovechkin in 22 Seasons

That much was evident during his final home opener.

Ovechkin’s sons, Sergei and Ilya, had the honor of introducing him on the ice, and the veteran player received a heartfelt standing ovation as the Washington Capitals secured a 5-3 victory against the Pittsburgh Penguins on Wednesday night.

The 41-year-old forward announced earlier in the week that this would be his last season.

“It was pretty cool moment,” Ovechkin reflected. “Huge crowd, kids announce my name. It was a special moment.”

Despite the excitement, Ovechkin didn’t add to his impressive total of 929 goals during this game. In fact, he found himself off the ice during a crucial closing stretch when the Penguins pulled their goalie. This match marked the 101st encounter between him and Pittsburgh’s star, Sidney Crosby, including playoffs—yet neither player managed to score, which happened only the 11th time, according to Sportradar.

Crosby even ended the night with a minus-4, having been on the ice for all four of Washington’s even-strength goals.

The Capitals have put together a roster with significant depth, allowing Ovechkin the luxury of not needing to dominate every power play.

“I’m not going to say he doesn’t want to be out there,” coach Spencer Carbery stated. “But he also understands what we’re trying to accomplish as a team, and he knows the quality of players around him.”

Washington did score one power-play goal, which came from Ryan Leonard, who shot from the left circle, a spot Ovechkin often occupies.

But don’t get it twisted—Ovechkin remained the focus of attention. When the entire roster was introduced, he was the last to be called, with his kids by his side for the moment.

“I had no idea any of that was happening,” Carbery admitted. “I think they really nailed that moment. It was special for everyone in the building.”

Ovechkin had two shots on goal and was on the ice when Anthony Beauvillier scored just 23 seconds into the game, giving Washington an early lead.

“It’s been such an incredible journey. Cool to see his kids down there,” remarked Tom Wilson, who contributed one 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.”