Peter Bondra, a Washington Capitals legend, concluded his tenure with the team during the 2003-04 season, after being traded to the Ottawa Senators at the trade deadline amid a major team rebuild. Under the guidance of then-GM George McPhee, the Capitals ended the season with their poorest record in 26 years, a finish that ultimately gave them the third-best odds in the 2004 NHL Draft Lottery. This led to the Capitals securing the first overall pick, a pivotal moment that altered the franchise’s future.
With that crucial selection, Washington chose Alex Ovechkin, a Russian winger whose prolific scoring transformed the team’s fortunes over the following two decades. Ovechkin not only surpassed Bondra’s impact but also propelled the Capitals to their maiden Stanley Cup victory and eventually eclipsed Wayne Gretzky’s all-time goals record, marking an extraordinary achievement in NHL history.
Bondra Reflects on Ovechkin’s Record-Breaking Path
Bondra recently commented on Ovechkin’s dominance and how it reshaped the Capitals’ record book. He joked with Sportovy’s Marian Korbel, sharing his surprise at Ovechkin’s relentless pace.
“When Ovechkin came to Washington, he took all my records,”
Bondra said.
I thought the train would stop, but he ran right through me, like through Kysak (a village in Slovakia), where the train does not stop. But records are meant to be rewritten. It was a big deal not only for Ovechkin but for the entire NHL.”
At the conclusion of his 14 seasons with the Capitals, Bondra held franchise records for goals (472), points (825), power play goals (137), shorthanded goals (32), even strength goals (303), game-winning goals (73), playoff goals (30), shots on goal (3,290), and hat tricks (19). Over 20 years later, Ovechkin now owns nearly every major offensive record belonging to the team, leaving Bondra with only one title in the record books.
Bondra’s Support for Ovechkin’s Success and Continued Role with the Capitals
Despite being overtaken in the record books, Bondra fully supports Ovechkin’s achievements and remains actively involved with the Capitals. He currently serves as the head of the team’s alumni association and collaborates in the organization’s marketing and commercial efforts.
“I work with Washington’s sponsors and partners,”
Bondra explained.
“So my work is mainly during NHL games, and I also manage the Capitals’ alumni association. We do two or three events a year, for example, Richard Zednik has been to America. These are mainly charity events, and it’s an interesting job. This season was very successful for the organization, the 50th anniversary of the club’s founding was celebrated, the Capitals advanced to the playoffs, and captain Ovechkin broke Gretzky’s historic scoring record.”
Bondra’s position keeps him close to the team’s ongoing success, including recent playoff appearances and historic milestones. His commitment to the franchise extends beyond his playing days, reflecting an enduring connection to the Capitals and their community initiatives.
The Lasting Legacy of Bondra and the Capitals’ Plans for Recognition
While Ovechkin has redefined the franchise’s record books, Peter Bondra remains one of the most celebrated players to have worn the Capitals jersey. The team’s owner, Ted Leonsis, has stated plans to honor Bondra once renovations at the Capital One Arena conclude. Although no player has worn Bondra’s number 12 on their jersey since the 2005-06 season, the number has not yet been officially retired.
Bondra’s influence on the team, both on and off the ice, underscores the importance of recognizing the foundational figures who helped build the Capitals into a Stanley Cup-winning franchise. As Ovechkin continues to add to his historic totals, Bondra’s legacy will remain an integral part of the franchise’s rich history.