$47.5M worth Alex Ovechkin shows he's still got it with MVP performance in NHL vs KHL All Star game

By Abhilasha Aditi

Modified Jul 20, 2024 20:27 GMT

Washington Capitals captain, Alex Ovechkin, had an MVP performance in the NHL vs. KHL All-Star Game in Moscow. The 38-year-old, who is on a five-year, $47.5 million contract with the Capitals, scored in the first minute from a pass by Artemi Panarin.

Ovechkin’s snapshot from the left circle and his celebration excited the crowd. The game ended in an 8-8 tie which featured familiar faces like Panarin and Evgeni Malkin. Ovechkin was named Player of the Game.

Ovechkin's performance showed his continued influence and top-level play. The NHL vs. KHL All-Star game was organized by Ovechkin, Panarin, and Mikhail Sergachev. The exhibition match also featured former Capitals like Dmitry Orlov and Ilya Kovalchuk, along with NHL stars Igor Shesterkin and Alex Radulov.

Ovechkin's current season salary is $11.5 million, with a $1 million base salary and a $10.5 million signing bonus. As he starts his 20th NHL season, he is only 42 goals away from breaking Wayne Gretzky’s all-time goals record.

Alex Ovechkin ranks 54th on ESPN's Top 100 Athletes of the 21st century

Alex Ovechkin received recognition from ESPN as he is part of their list of the top 100 athletes of the 21st century, raking 54th. This list was based on a poll of over 70,000 contributors.

The veteran left winger is praised for his career and 853 goals.

“There isn’t a player in the NHL who has commanded a slap shot like Ovechkin in his career. Even if Father Time has begun catching up in some areas, the pure power behind his signature shot remains," Kristen Shilton said (via ESPN).

"Ovechkin’s success scoring 853 goals (to date) has come in large part because of how he uses a big frame (6-foot-2) to add velocity and power behind a shot that can exceed 100 mph,” Shilton added.

Alex Ovechkin's achievements include being one of NHL's 100 Greatest Players, winning the Stanley Cup, and receiving multiple Hart and Richard Trophies. Critics say Ovechkin's career is as strong as, or better than Sidney Crosby's, who is 32 spots ahead.

ESPN's Top 10 includes Michael Phelps, Serena Williams, and Lionel Messi. No hockey player is in the top 20, unlike its strong presence in the 20th century rankings.