Alex Ovechkin, the Washington Capitals superstar, made headlines recently by setting a new record off the ice. During a Steak Cup event in Moscow, he helped cook 895 steaks, symbolizing the number of goals he scored to surpass <a href="https://www.buzzineintl.com/category/hockey/nhl/”>NHL legend Wayne Gretzky. This unusual record highlights a moment of celebration in the NHL offseason for the 39-year-old forward.
Recognition and Significance of the Steak Grilling Achievement
The 895 steaks prepared and grilled by Ovechkin earned him a place in the Russian Book of Records, adding a distinctive accomplishment beyond his hockey career. A certified representative validated the milestone, marking it as an official event. This achievement came amid a busy offseason for Ovechkin, who recently participated in various festivities after returning from a vacation in Turkey.
On the ice, Ovechkin currently has 897 NHL goals, closing in on the 900-goal milestone. Despite this, he remains undecided about continuing his career beyond the 2025-26 NHL season.
Ovechkin Addresses Retirement Rumors and Future Plans
Ovechkin shut down recent rumors about retiring soon, calling them “pure nonsense.” Speaking to Russian media outlet RG, he clarified the speculation involving his wife, Nastya, who was incorrectly reported to have suggested he might retire.
She [referring to his wife] said maybe we’ll come and play in Russia. But it was just a ‘maybe.’ No one mentioned a specific date. It’s all nonsense that you guys are twisting and putting Nastya in a position where it sounds like she said I’m playing my last NHL season. Let’s just wait and see!
—Alex Ovechkin
A source close to Ovechkin also commented on his decision-making process, stating:
Alex has always been honest with himself and the hockey community. If he feels he can no longer play at the highest level, he won’t continue just for the sake of staying.
—Unnamed source
These statements provide insight into Ovechkin’s mindset regarding his future in professional hockey.
Performance Recap and Team’s Recent Playoff Exit
The Capitals’ 2024-25 season ended after a 4-1 loss to the Carolina Hurricanes, cutting their playoff run short despite finishing first in the Eastern Conference regular season. Ovechkin contributed significantly throughout the campaign, scoring 44 goals and accumulating 73 points over 65 games. Whether he will continue beyond the next season remains a question for fans and analysts alike.
The Impact of Ovechkin’s Record Beyond Hockey
This grilling record not only celebrates Ovechkin’s remarkable scoring achievement but also showcases his connection to his roots in Moscow and his ability to captivate attention beyond hockey. The 895 steaks symbolize a unique way to honor a storied career milestone, reinforcing his legacy both on and off the ice.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is Alex Ovechkin missing a tooth?
A. Alexander Ovechkin, the Washington Capitals’ captain, often loses a few teeth during games, but he chooses not to have them repaired.