Top 3 key Washington Capitals to watch against the Pittsburgh Penguins

Big one tonight. Let's break down who to watch on the good guys

Tom Wilson, Dylan Strome, Washington Capitals
Tom Wilson, Dylan Strome, Washington Capitals | Scott Taetsch/GettyImages
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Alex Ovechkin, Washington Capitals Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-Imagn Images | Geoff Burke-Imagn Images

#1 Alex Ovechkin

Alex Ovechkin continues to chase history as he recorded two points the other night against Nashville with a goal and assist which extended his goal streak to five games with six goals and five assists for 11 points.

Ovi became the third player in NHL history to record a five game goal streak at age 39 or older, joining Brett Hull and Johnny Bucyk. It also marked Ovechkin's 15th career goal streak of at least five games within a regular season. Only Mario Lemieux (17) and Wayne Gretzky (16) have more.

Ovechkin has scored 31 points in his last 48 games dating back to Jan. 27 which is a rate of 0.65 goals per game. Ovi ranks tied for third in the NHL in goals in that span. His goal on Nov. 6 marked his 130th career game winning goal, leaving him six shy of passing Jaromir Jagr (135) for the most in NHL history.

Ovechkin has recorded 16 points with eight goals and eight assists in 12 games. That is the most points he has recorded through the first 12 games of a season since 2021-22.

In 76 career games against the Penguins, Ovechkin has recorded 75 points with 42 goals and 33 assists. He ranks first among active players in career goals and points against the Penguins.

With 861 career goals, Ovi needs 34 more to pass Wayne Gretzky (894) for first on the NHL's all time goals list. With eight goals in 12 games, Ovi is currently on pace for 54 goals. Should he reach the 50 goal plateu not only would he break Wayne's record but also establish a new record for the most 50 goal seasons with 10.

Once again your friendly neighborhood Spiderman reminder that puck drop is at 7:30 p.m. on ESPN plus and Hulu.

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