At nearly 40 years old, Alex Ovechkin continues to defy age, proving instrumental in leading the Washington Capitals to the second round of the NHL playoffs. His aggressive playstyle remains unmatched, showcasing his ability to land significant hits while also scoring crucial goals. Teammates like Tom Wilson and Dylan Strome have praised Ovechkin's energy and leadership, noting how he sets the tone for the team. His performance has drawn attention, especially following his historic achievement of surpassing Wayne Gretzky's career goals record.

Despite last season's disappointing playoff exit, where he failed to score against the New York Rangers, Ovechkin has bounced back with a fierce determination. He is recognized for his physical style, which is particularly effective in the high-stakes atmosphere of playoff hockey. With four goals in the first round, Ovechkin's consistent scoring has been a pivotal factor for the Capitals as they prepare to face the Carolina Hurricanes.