A refined NHL defense breakout model now targets blueliners likely to deliver true fantasy impact beyond sporadic scoring, focusing on age, experience, and a first sustained FPPG above a historical median. It flags defenders entering a true breakout window (roughly 23–27 years old, 170–380 games) who can push into top unit minutes and PP time, while accumulating hits and blocks that translate to fantasy points.

Among the names highlighted: Bowen Byram, Jamie Drysdale, Dylan Samberg, and K’Andre Miller, plus others who could unlock a real late-round upside if opportunity aligns. The framework aims to separate true contributors from depth players, guiding drafts with data-backed confidence.

Alex Ovechkin has etched his name in NHL history by becoming the player with the most goaltenders scored against, netting his record-breaking goal against Leevi Merilainen of the Ottawa Senators. This overtime goal secured a 1-0 victory for the Washington Capitals, marking the 179th goalie Ovechkin has scored against, surpassing Jaromir Jagr's previous record.

Ovechkin's impressive scoring feat came on his third shot of the night, following a well-timed 2-on-1 breakaway pass from teammate Rasmus Sandin. The 39-year-old winger continues to chase Wayne Gretzky's all-time goals record, now sitting at 874 career goals, just 21 shy of Gretzky's legendary mark.

In a thrilling overtime matchup, Alex Ovechkin delivered a decisive goal for the Washington Capitals, leading them to a 1-0 victory over the Ottawa Senators. The game remained scoreless until Ovechkin found the net, marking his 874th career goal and achieving a new NHL record for the most goalies scored upon, netting his 179th victim, Leevi Merilainen. This occurred during a two-on-one breakaway, where Ovechkin strategically chose to shoot rather than pass, securing the win for his team.

The Senators, despite the loss, showcased resilience against the NHL-leading Capitals, with Merilainen putting forth an impressive performance, accumulating 26 saves, including a critical stop on Tom Wilson during overtime. Ottawa's defense held strong, and although they struggled on power plays, they maintained a solid game throughout.

Capitals' goalie Logan Thompson contributed significantly with a 24-save shutout, helping preserve the scoreless tie until Ovechkin's winner. Senators coach Travis Green acknowledged the game's intensity, emphasizing the importance of assessing their performance positively, despite the setback. Furthermore, Ottawa rookie Donovan Sebrango made his NHL debut, expressing excitement about playing alongside his childhood idol, Ovechkin, highlighting the game's memorable nature for him.

Alex Ovechkin showcased his goal-scoring prowess by netting the decisive overtime goal in the Washington Capitals' 1-0 victory over the Ottawa Senators. The game remained scoreless for 60 minutes until Ovechkin capitalized on a two-on-one with Rasmus Sandin, scoring his 874th career goal, bringing him closer to Wayne Gretzky's record.

Ovechkin's goal also marked a milestone as he set a new NHL record for the most different goalies scored on, with Ottawa's Leevi Merilainen being number 179. The Senators, despite the loss, displayed confidence and determination against the league-leading Capitals.

The Washington Capitals secured a thrilling 2-1 overtime victory against the Vancouver Canucks at Capital One Arena, improving their record to 27-10-4 this season. Goaltender Logan Thompson was instrumental, making 30 saves to help the Capitals maintain their strong performance, now at 6-2-2 following a rough stretch on the road.

Pierre-Luc Dubois scored both goals for Washington, including the overtime winner, showcasing his offensive prowess. The game featured physical play, highlighted by a first-period melee sparked by a hit on Quinn Hughes, leading to both teams being penalized.