Alex Ovechkin now Washington Capitals’ all-time franchise points leader
Alex Ovechkin needed just 691 games to accomplish what took Peter Bondra 961 games.
With his assist on Nicklas Backstrom’s first-period goal against the Calgary Flames on Tuesday night, Ovechkin notched his 826th regular-season point, surpassing the career total of Bondra with the Capitals (825) to become the all-time points leader in franchise history.
“It has been a thrill to watch Alex play for the Capitals during his young, illustrious career,” Bondra said, via the Capitals. “He is an extremely talented player and I couldn’t be happier for him on achieving this great milestone. I extend to him my most sincere congratulations for passing my mark and becoming Washington’s franchise points leader. I wish him good luck in the rest of his career as he continues to rewrite the Capitals’ history books.”
Washington played a tribute video during the game, with a nifty Richard Donner-era “Superman” motif. (It also offered a glimpse back to those regrettable black jerseys the Caps used to wear. Yuck.)
Ovechkin now ranks first in points and power-play goals in franchise history; he trails Bondra in overall goals, with 428 to his 472. He also is second to Michal Pivonka in assists, with 399 to the former center’s 418. He’s also three goals behind Bondra (73) for all-time game-winning goals.
So it’s possible that Ovechkin ends the 2014-15 season as the franchise leader in all scoring categories. Although we’re pretty sure he won’t be threatening Rod Langway’s franchise record of a plus-117.
Congrats, Ovi. Is party now.