In a surprising move during practice on Monday, superstar left winger Alex Ovechkin took to the ice as a right winger on the Washington Capitals’ top line. The change sparked speculation among fans and analysts alike about the potential strategy behind this lineup adjustment.
When asked about the switch, Ovechkin, 39, jokingly told The Athletic’s Tarik El-Bashir, “I [doesn’t] know if I’m going to play right or left or center. Maybe I’m going to play goalie tomorrow—we never know.” His sense of humor and laid-back attitude towards the change seemed to reassure fans that he was willing to adapt to any position for the good of the team.
Ovechkin’s flexibility in playing on the right wing is not entirely new territory for the Russian forward. During the lockout-shortened 2012-13 season, he predominantly played as a right winger, showcasing his ability to adjust to different positions on the ice as needed. However, the majority of Ovechkin’s career has been spent on the left side, where he has perfected his signature shot—a lethal wrister from the faceoff circle on the left-wing side of the offensive zone.
This iconic shot has been instrumental in Ovechkin’s incredible journey to 853 career NHL goals, solidifying his status as one of the greatest goal scorers in the history of the league. With just 41 goals separating him from surpassing Wayne Gretzky’s all-time record of 894 goals, Ovechkin’s relentless pursuit of greatness has captivated hockey fans around the world.
Despite Ovechkin’s individual accolades, his primary focus remains on helping his team succeed. Following a disappointing 5-3 loss to the New Jersey Devils in their season opener, the Capitals are eager to bounce back in their upcoming game against the Vegas Golden Knights on Tuesday. Ovechkin’s willingness to adapt to different positions on the ice is a testament to his commitment to finding the right combinations and chemistry within the team—a quality that sets him apart as a true leader on and off the ice.
As the Capitals continue to navigate the challenges of a new season with fresh faces and high expectations, Ovechkin’s versatility and team-first mentality will undoubtedly play a crucial role in shaping the team’s success. Fans can expect to see the Russian star continue to dazzle with his offensive prowess, regardless of which position he ultimately settles into on the ice.