Alex Ovechkin is often hailed as the premier goalscorer in NHL's illustrious history, and his pursuit of Wayne Gretzky's record is a popular topic of discussion. Even though Ovechkin has dominated for over a decade, age is catching up, and signs of slowing down are evident.
Ovechkin's Current Form
In the initial four matches of the season with Washington, Ovechkin hasn't netted a goal. Moreover, for the first time in his career, he didn't even manage a shot in back-to-back games.
It's alarming that a player, who is less than 100 goals shy of the historical record, is facing such a slump. Given that Ovechkin is approaching his 40s, if he can't maintain a high-performance level, the record might remain unbroken.
Despite the questions surrounding Ovechkin's form, an ex-General Manager believes he has pinpointed the issue with the iconic number 8.
Button Weighs In
Craig Button, an erstwhile GM now an analyst for TSN, opined on Ovechkin after watching Washington play against Montreal.
«There were a couple of positive signs in this game versus Montreal, but overall this year, what I've seen from Alexander Ovechkin — he just, to me, hasn't had the same level of physical or mental engagement in the game,»
«He doesn't look like that player that's driving play, that wants the puck. When you watch him at his best, he's skating, he's driving plays, using his body to deliver body checks, he's in that spot, ready with his stick. I haven't seen that from him this year.» - Craig Button
«He doesn't look like that player that's driving play, that wants the puck. When you watch him at his best, he's skating, he's driving plays, using his body to deliver body checks, he's in that spot, ready with his stick. I haven't seen that from him this year.» - Craig Button
If Ovechkin's passion and drive are indeed waning, it could signal the end for one of the sport's legendary figures. It's disheartening, especially since Wayne Gretzky had expressed excitement about witnessing Ovechkin's journey toward the record.
As covered by Washington Hockey Now - Canadian Media Reflects on Ovechkin's Dwindling Form
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