Alex Ovechkin is now one goal shy of reaching 700, scoring his first goal in five games on Thursday night in the Washington Capitals’ 4-3 overtime loss to the Montreal Canadiens.
His last goal came with a hat trick on Feb. 4 against the Los Angeles Kings. He now sits at 699 career goals.
As the slump continued, members of the Capitals’ organization spoke out, including GM Brian MacLellan.
“From observing, I would say I think everybody wants him to get it and are trying hard for him to get it… let’s just play our game and it’s going to happen organically,” MacLellan said. “It’s just going to take care of itself.”
Ovechkin’s thoughts were clear as he sought to end the drought.
“I don’t think somebody thinks about it,” he said. “If it happens, it happens. It’s just a matter of time. Tomorrow, after tomorrow, whatever. We’re focusing right now to get our game better, to secure a playoff spot, and then we’ll move on.”
Only seven players have reached the 700 mark: Wayne Gretzkey, Gordie Howe, Jaromir Jagr, Brett Hull, Marcel Dionne, Phil Esposito, and Mike Gartner.
This weekend, Ovechkin will have two chances to reach the 700 club. They visit New Jersey on Saturday at 1:00 p.m. ET on MSG+ and host the Pittsburgh Penguins on Sunday at 12:00 p.m. ET on NBC.
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