Alexander Ovechkin is experiencing a liberation of sorts in these NHL playoffs, as he's finally reached the Stanley Cup Final. It's been a long time coming for the Washington Capitals superstar.
The 11-time All-Star - who was criticized for years for never leading the Capitals to the final while his principal rival, Sidney Crosby, lifted the Cup three times - admits it was initially difficult to block out the talk that he couldn't win when it mattered most.
"Of course you read news. Of course you’re paying attention to what people saying," Ovechkin said to Isabelle Khurshudyan of The Washington Post. "But sometimes you just have to hear it, and it goes in one ear and out the other. Because if you’re going to take all of this information, you’re going to be crazy, you know? You’re going to be psycho. You just can’t play hockey after that. The first couple of years when we lost, of course it was hard. Of course, it was like, 'Oh Jesus, what did I do wrong?'"
Ovechkin won the "Rocket" Richard Trophy for the seventh time in his career after leading the NHL with 49 goals during the 2017-18 season, and has displayed a dynamic all-around game throughout the playoffs.
Washington head coach Barry Trotz says he's noticed a discernible change in his captain's approach.
"I think he’s approaching the playoffs with a little more ease," Trotz said. "He’s been freed a little bit - freed in a sense of understanding that he's a great player no matter what. I think too much was put on him. I think he got away from realizing that he is a good player and he’s a good person and he does all those things. It just freed him enough that he’s now got a chance to get the ultimate prize. We’re four wins away, and he’s been a big reason for it along with his teammates. You don’t win three rounds, you don’t win a round, you don’t win anything in this sport by yourself."
It may be a bit trite at this point, but winning does indeed cure everything. And for Ovechkin, critical acclaim is less important than capping off one of the most decorated careers of this century with a Cup victory.
NHL deputy commissioner and chief legal officer Bill Daly confirmed during a press conference Monday that the salary cap for the 2018-2019 season is projected to be around $80 million, up from $75 million this season.
A set number for next season has not yet been agreed upon as the NHL needs to consult with the NHLPA regarding the league's year-over-year growth.
Commissioner Gary Bettman also said during the press conference that the NHL's board of governors could vote on an expansion team for Seattle. The idea of expansion is being revisited with the Vegas Golden Knights in the Stanley Cup Final during their inaugural season.
Bettman also stated that the Ottawa Senators are not for sale, despite rampant speculation about owner Eugene Melynk's control of the team.
The Swedish youngster posted just six goals during the 2016-17 season with the Columbus Blue Jackets, resulting in the team making him available in the June expansion draft. In his first campaign with the Golden Knights, Karlsson notched 43 goals, second only to Alex Ovechkin and Patrik Laine.
With the Stanley Cup Final slated to get underway Monday, Karlsson lamented a lack of opportunity with his former club.
"I've always wanted to be a top-six player," Karlsson said to ESPN's Emily Kaplan. "Not being one in Columbus was really frustrating. I wanted the chance."
The 25-year-old revealed that playing in a diminished scoring role took its toll on his confidence, but that he used his change of scenery to revitalize his career.
"There have been times when I doubted myself, could I really do this?" Karlsson said. "Then I got picked by Vegas and I thought to myself this is my big chance. It's up to me to take it. I'm glad I took it."
On the verge of trying to pull off what was once believed to be an impossible feat, Karlsson will play an imperative role in the Golden Knights' bid to lift the Cup this summer.
This year's Stanley Cup Final pits a perennial contender finally on the verge of glory against a first-year expansion team looking to shock the world.
It's been an exhilarating ride to the Cup and while everyone knows about Alex Ovechkin's elusive pursuit of his first title, a lot of strong contributors for both the Washington Capitals and Vegas Golden Knights have yet to receive national recognition.
If you're scrambling to find familiarity with both teams, have no fear, we have you covered. Here is every player in this year's Final, ranked:
1. Alex Ovechkin, Capitals
At this point, we all know the talking points. The seven-time Rocket Richard Trophy winner is looking to win his first Stanley Cup, in what would be the culmination of one of the greatest careers of the 21st century. Ovechkin is the face of the Caps, won the Richard again this year, and has been an all-around menace this spring. It's time for him to lift the Cup.
2. Marc-Andre Fleury, Golden Knights
It's hard to imagine the Golden Knights getting anywhere near the Cup without Fleury in phenomenal form. Posting a spectacular .947 save percentage and 1.68 goals against average, Fleury is playing the best hockey of his career and will be counted upon to steal a game or two for the Golden Knights against the Capitals' vaunted offense.
3. Evgeny Kuznetsov, Capitals
An electrifying talent, Kuznetsov has elevated his game throughout the playoffs and leads all players with 24 points. Kuznetsov's speed and ability to navigate in tight spaces are key assets for the Capitals. He's the player most likely to score a goal that will live on highlight reels forever, while angling for the Conn Smythe Trophy.
4. Braden Holtby, Capitals
It feels like ancient history at this point but Holtby was benched in favor of Philipp Grubauer for the start of the playoffs. Holtby has performed admirably since, rounding himself into top shape with a .923 save percentage and 2.04 GAA. If Holtby can replicate his Vezina Trophy-winning form, it will be nearly impossible to take down the Capitals.
5. John Carlson, Capitals
Carlson will be the most coveted unrestricted free-agent defenseman on the open market this summer and could see his value ascend to astronomical levels with a standout Cup. The 28-year-old led all D-men with 68 points during the regular season and could propel the Capitals to the title with his offensive exploits.
6. Jonathan Marchessault, Golden Knights
Marchessault scored 30 goals with the Florida Panthers in 2016-17, and yet they were still compelled to leave him unprotected in the expansion draft. Big mistake. Marchessault notched 75 points during the regular season and leads the Golden Knights with eight goals and 18 points during the playoffs. With excellent vision and puck skills from in close, Marchessault will be relied upon heavily to spearhead Vegas' offense.
7. Nicklas Backstrom, Capitals
Although the prevailing narrative is built around Ovechkin's quest for the Cup, Backstrom has been there every step of the way, serving as one of the NHL's most reliable playmakers. This spring is no different, and Backstrom - despite a hand injury - will be counted upon to tee up Ovechkin and Co., while adding secondary goal-scoring throughout the series if the Capitals are to raise the trophy.
8. William Karlsson, Golden Knights
Karlsson best embodies the unpredictable success of the Golden Knights. Made available by the Columbus Blue Jackets, Karlsson unexpectedly scored 43 goals, topping his previous career best of nine. Gifted with excellent speed, Karlsson can score in traffic and navigate tight spaces with proficiency. With 13 points through 15 playoff games, Karlsson will need to continue to light the lamp for Vegas to win the Cup.
9. Reilly Smith, Golden Knights
The final component of the Golden Knights' top line, Smith has served as a strong playmaker through the postseason, dishing out 14 assists and adding two goals in 15 games. Much like his linemates, Smith could cap off a season in the grandest way imaginable if he continues to produce.
10. T.J. Oshie, Capitals
A devastating player in 1-on-1 scenarios, Oshie has continued to amplify the Capitals' offense throughout the playoffs, posting seven goals and 15 points in 19 games. Oshie was the hero of Washington's Game 6 victory over Tampa Bay in the Eastern Conference finals, and his propensity to excel on the big stage will be tested once again.
11. Matt Niskanen, Capitals
Niskanen isn't the flashiest player in this series, but he gets the job done. Logging over 25 minutes per game, Niskanen is a solid presence in his own end and can contribute secondary offense when necessary.
12. Tom Wilson, Capitals
Some may object to Wilson's place on this list but his impact is certainly felt by his opponents. One of the league's most punishing hitters, Wilson is a strong skater who will get under his opponent's skin throughout the contest and is constantly aggressive on the forecheck. Because he's prone to theatrics, Wilson's overall skill set has been criminally underrated. Count him out at your own peril.
13. Nate Schmidt, Golden Knights
Schmidt is looking for revenge against his former club and leads Vegas in ice time, playing just under 25 minutes per game. It's unlikely Schmidt will make headlines, but he's vital to the Golden Knights' defensive scheme and organization within their own end.
14. Lars Eller, Capitals
Eller signed a five-year, $17.5-million extension with the Capitals in February in large part due to his consistency and embodies everything you'd want out of a modern third-line center. Although he's seldom been used in this capacity with the Capitals, Eller is capable of contributing from the wing if needed.
15. James Neal, Golden Knights
Prior to the season, Neal was expected to be the catalyst of the Golden Knights' offense. Although he's been usurped by the team's first line, Neal is still a prototypical power forward capable of breaking games open with his size, speed, and puck control in tight spaces. Neal has notched 40 goals in his career before and could be due for an offensive explosion during the Final.
16. Dmitry Orlov, Capitals
Orlov is a mobile defenseman who often leads breakouts and provides secondary offense routinely for the Capitals. A good hitter in the open ice, Orlov can get caught out of position while aggressively pursuing the puck.
17. Brayden McNabb, Golden Knights
McNabb isn't going to win anyone over with flash and panache but he's a solid two-way presence featuring alongside Schmidt, logging 22 minutes per game with a physical presence.
18. Shea Theodore, Golden Knights
Theodore was selected in the first round of the 2013 NHL Draft by Anaheim but underwent his career year in Vegas, notching six goals and 29 points during the regular season.
19. Brooks Orpik, Capitals
Orpik was once known for being a reckless physical presence, but he's developed into a serene player in his own end who plays a simple game and who's capable of logging heavy minutes if needed. The 37-year-old is looking for the second Cup of his career, having previously won in 2009 with Pittsburgh.
20. Alex Tuch, Golden Knights
Tuch was selected 18th overall by Minnesota in the 2014 NHL Draft and has truly blossomed with Vegas. After playing sparingly with the Wild, Tuch has consistently generated secondary offense for the Golden Knights and will be counted upon for some timely goals. It's hard to believe that Tuch was acquired as a nominal piece from the Erik Haula signing.
21. Erik Haula, Golden Knights
Haula was one of the Golden Knights' first major signings and the return on value has been mixed. After a 29-goal regular season, Haula essentially disappeared entirely during the Western Conference Finals. It's time for him to truly prove his worth as one of the league's most underrated talents.
22. Michal Kempny, Capitals
Kempny is a great skater but there's nothing truly outstanding about his game. After being acquired in a February trade with Chicago, Kempny has carved out his role as a reliable defenseman who can log around 20 minutes per game with limited offensive upside.
23. Chandler Stephenson, Capitals
A relative unknown prior to this season, Stephenson is playing the best hockey of his career in a bottom-six role for the Capitals. His place on this list is derived from his strong performance during the playoffs and he'll need to be at his best during the Cup.
24. Deryk Engelland, Golden Knights
Widely considered to be the leader of the expansion Golden Knights, Engelland simply doesn't get rattled. At 36, some figured Engelland would struggle in a larger role but his mistake-free, low-risk game has been a major asset and will be key qualities against an opportunistic Capitals' offense.
25. Colin Miller, Golden Knights
Miller's slapshot may as well be a rocket launcher, once getting clocked at 105.5 mph during the 2015 AHL All-Star Skills competition. Though his production has tailed off during the playoffs, the sheer velocity of Miller's shot can create scoring opportunities for his teammates.
26. Luca Sbisa, Golden Knights
The Swiss international fought through an injury-filled campaign to return in time for the Golden Knights' playoff run. Finally healthy after being limited to 30 games during the regular season, Sbisa is in the form of his life and will be relied upon heavily to bury the Capitals' scoring lines.
27. Devante Smith-Pelly, Capitals
Smith-Pelly is an expert penalty killer who will throw himself at 90-mph-plus slapshots without hesitation. Although he has limited offensive upside, Smith-Pelly's ability to destroy defenders on the forecheck will help the Capitals establish their presence in the offensive zone.
28. Brett Connolly, Capitals
Selected sixth overall in the 2010 NHL Draft, Connolly hasn't lived up to his billing as a prospect, but has forged a role as a solid bottom-six contributor. If there were ever a time to show why he was once considered a potentially elite scoring threat, it's now.
29. David Perron, Golden Knights
The book hasn't changed all too much on Perron. You're getting a solid playmaker with the ability to elevate his game and score in bunches. Perron hasn't scored during the playoffs, however, and he's certainly due.
30. Jay Beagle, Capitals
Beagle is excellent on faceoffs and helps the Capitals establish their presence in the offensive zone with his proficiency. Although the rest of his game is unremarkable, Beagle can wear down the Golden Knights by continuing to beat his man off the draw.
31. Jakub Vrana, Capitals
At 22, Vrana is still coming into his own as a player but he'll need to be more consistent during the Final. Vrana was completely erased by the Lightning in the Eastern Conference Finals, and could see his minutes shortened if he's a zero on the offensive end.
32. Andre Burakovsky, Capitals
What a time to have a breakout game! Burakovsky submitted the performance of his young career in Washington's Game 7 triumph over Tampa Bay, scoring two pivotal goals to advance to the Final. Selected in the first round of the 2013 draft, Burakovsky could reward his franchise's faith in him with a few more clutch goals.
33. Cody Eakin, Golden Knights
Eakin is a solid center for the Golden Knights but he'll need to do more during the Final as he was practically non-existent offensively against the Jets.
34. Ryan Carpenter, Golden Knights
Carpenter has established himself as a decent checking forward but don't expect him to light the lamp against a well-organized Capitals defense.
35. Christian Djoos, Capitals
Djoos is the final man on the Capitals' defensive depth chart and his game is centered around avoiding mistakes and cleanly redistributing the puck. He'll likely be paired against the Golden Knights' bottom-six forwards.
36. Ryan Reaves, Golden Knights
Reaves is known as an enforcer and while some have lobbied for him to be replaced by a more skilled forward, he scored when it counted during Vegas' Game 5 victory over Winnipeg. Acquired at the trade deadline, Reaves will be tasked with physically wearing down the Capitals' defensemen.
37. Pierre-Edouard Bellemare, Golden Knights
Bellemare is grit personified. There's nothing pretty about his game but the French international shares the common trait that all Vegas' defensemen share in mitigating risk.
38. Jon Merrill, Golden Knights
Merrill signed a two-year contract extension with Vegas in January and figures into their long-term plans. He hasn't seen any playing time since Sbisa returned, however, and will likely only play if an injury occurs.
39. Tomas Nosek, Golden Knights
With three points in 12 games, Nosek could be replaced in the lineup if he doesn't start generating more quality chances.
40. Oscar Lindberg, Golden Knights
An often maddening player due to his inconsistency, Lindberg hasn't played since May 12.
41. Tomas Tatar, Golden Knights
Tatar was acquired in February from the Detroit Red Wings but he's been completely erratic through the playoffs, notching one goal in six games.
42. Alex Chiasson, Capitals
A capable secondary scorer when needed, Chiasson may be the odd man out for the Capitals in this series.
43. William Carrier, Golden Knights
A depth forward, Carrier has been out with an undisclosed injury and may be held out for the duration of the series.
44. Nathan Walker, Capitals
Walker became the first Australian player to play in the NHL and while it's a cool factoid, he's unlikely to see notable playing time.
45. Philipp Grubauer, Capitals
This isn't an indictment of Grubauer, but it does seem highly unlikely that he'll play with Holtby starring throughout the playoffs.
46. Malcolm Subban, Golden Knights
Barring disaster, P.K. Subban's little brother will not be seeing the ice.
U.S. men's hockey captain Brian Gionta is mulling a return to the NHL upon the conclusion of the PyeongChang Games, according to his agent, Steve Bartlett, who's already had discussions with multiple teams.
The forward captained the Buffalo Sabres last season and scored 15 goals, but after they elected not to re-sign him, the 39-year-old rejected offers from other teams in order to play in South Korea.
Now, it sounds like Gionta will be available for the stretch run. Here, we determine his best NHL fits:
New Jersey Devils
This would be a homecoming for Gionta, as he played in more than 500 games for the Devils after they drafted him in 1998. He'd be a good fit with New Jersey's roster that needs more balanced scoring down the depth chart, as it relies almost exclusively on Taylor Hall and Nico Hischier. Gionta also offers veteran experience that would be an asset for a young, up-and-coming Devils team that currently sits in an Eastern Conference wild-card spot. He helped New Jersey win the Stanley Cup in 2003, and a second stint ought to be welcomed 15 years later.
Tampa Bay Lightning
The highest-scoring team in the NHL doesn't necessarily need Gionta, but it'd still be a mutually beneficial partnership. Gionta would be provided with an opportunity to end his career with another Stanley Cup, while the Lightning would gain another depth forward in pursuit of a title. Plus, with eight forwards under 6-feet tall on Tampa Bay's roster, Gionta's diminutive stature (he stands 5-foot-7) won't be held against him and he could be a stylistic match for the team. If he gets an offer from Steve Yzerman, it may be too good to pass up.
Boston Bruins
Boston would represent a homecoming in a different way than New Jersey. Gionta starred for Boston College before heading to the NHL, and the Bruins are once again in contention for the Stanley Cup. Gionta has never played outside of the Eastern Conference and it's unlikely he'll want to venture very far away from his family in Buffalo at this stage of his career. He wouldn't be asked to do too much in Boston's offense and offers a familiarity with its division rivals that few other free agents possess.
It's been widely reported Kovalchuk, who will be an unrestricted free agent this summer, is entertaining a return to the NHL, and the 34-year-old would be an asset to numerous teams after featuring as a prolific goal-scorer in the KHL.
Kovalchuk, possessing one of the game's most lethal releases, would provide an instant burst of offense. Below, we rank five teams from least suitable to most suitable that ought to consider making an offer to the decorated winger.
5. New Jersey Devils
Few would fault the Devils organization if they wanted nothing to do with Kovalchuk after he bailed for the KHL after the 2012-13 season. This is a different team than the one from which he fled, however, and it would be a mutually beneficial partnership.
New Jersey is currently positioned to make the playoffs, trying to fend off several clubs for a wild-card spot, and could use an offensive boost in attempting to cement its bid; Kovalchuk would help round out a young, top-heavy group largely relying upon Taylor Hall and Nico Hischier to engineer the attack. The Devils have 17 players signed through 2018-19 and could afford to meet Kovalchuk's demands - provided they aren't exorbitant, like his last NHL stint.
Kovalchuk would also serve as an unlikely mentor to Hischier, both of whom were selected first overall, 16 years apart. Second chances aren't always ideal, but this may be worth exploring.
4. San Jose Sharks
Kovalchuk would fit in seamlessly with a veteran Sharks team still looking for a first Stanley Cup in franchise history. It would be an easy transition for a man who ought to be familiar with large portions of the roster while serving as another potent offensive option.
San Jose currently ranks third on the power play and while there is an argument to be made that it doesn't need fixing, imagining Kovalchuk on a unit with Logan Couture, Joe Pavelski, and Brent Burns may be too tempting to resist.
It appears Kovalchuk's goals align perfectly with the Sharks', and it's an option that ought to be appealing to both parties.
3. Vegas Golden Knights
No one expected the Golden Knights to be this good this soon, but if the expected regression to the mean never occurs, they could be an ideal destination for Kovalchuk. Unlike the other four suitors listed, Vegas faces minimal cap restraints and would likely be able to offer the most lucrative contract this summer.
Jonathan Marchessault, David Perron, William Karlsson, and Reilly Smith have been among the season's most surprising revelations, creating a formidable attack along with veteran James Neal, whom many expected to be the team's top scorer. While it may be unwise to count out the Golden Knights as they are now, Kovalchuk adds further credibility to an offensive unit that has completely bamboozled the rest of the league.
With the prospect of being able to offer a lucrative contract combined with the city's famed nightlife, the Golden Knights could have an unlikely allure.
2. Los Angeles Kings
A veteran team with Stanley Cup experience playing in a city with world-renowned entertainment options in picturesque California is an alluring pitch with which to begin. Add in that the Kings are starved for another offensive weapon, and Kovalchuk may be donning the silver, black, and white in 2018-19.
The Kings rank 19th on the power play and Kovalchuk's deadly release would serve as a major asset for a team that has earned a reputation for a conservative style of play. With the exception of Anze Kopitar, L.A. doesn't have a single forward with more than 40 points this season and Kovalchuk would inject new life into the group.
Kovalchuk's ambition to win a Stanley Cup is likely fueling his desire to return North America and few teams provide him with a better fit, both as an individual and from a team perspective. Rob Blake has work to do.
1. Winnipeg Jets
It would be poetic for Kovalchuk to return to the organization with which he started his career just as they are turning into a potential contender for years to come, and his experience and goal-scoring ability would surely be coveted.
Imagine trying to stop a power play with Kovalchuk and Patrik Laine firing off the wing? It would be an absolute nightmare for 30 other teams to figure out. Kovalchuk would effectively replace Mathieu Perreault on the top line and a link-up with Mark Scheifele and Blake Wheeler sounds like a nightmare, to say nothing of the added balance the ripple effect would create for the club.
Signing Kovalchuk is a feasible, sensible decision for the Jets to make, and Kevin Cheveldayoff and his staff ought to be watching PyeongChang 2018 closely.
Jan Mursak earned hero status in Slovenia on Wednesday, scoring both the late equalizer and overtime winner in his country's 3-2 comeback victory over Team USA in the men's hockey opener.
Here's everything you need to know about the Slovenian captain:
Only Slovenian Olympian with NHL experience
Mursak was selected by the Detroit Red Wings in the sixth round of the 2006 NHL Draft. He's one of three Slovenians to ever play in the league. Detroit received a decent return on value, with Mursak ranking 63rd in games played (46 over three seasons) in his draft class.
Peter Forsberg is one of his heroes
It appears Mursak drew inspiration Wednesday from his idol, former Colorado Avalanche great Peter Forsberg.
Forsberg was a standout at Lillehammer in 1994, guiding Sweden to a gold medal while recording eight points during the tournament. Although it's unlikely Mursak will steer Slovenia to the podium, he's certainly off to a great start.
Babcock believed in him
Mursak's stint with the Red Wings was unremarkable, but he earned a vote of confidence from Mike Babcock, who served as the team's head coach prior to joining the Toronto Maple Leafs. After scoring 24 goals in the AHL during the 2009-10 season, the coach saw the potential for Mursak to become a key contributor in Detroit.
"He can really shoot the puck. He scores every day in practice,'' Babcock said of Mursak in February 2012, according to Ansar Khan of MLive.com. "You don't score in practice and not translate it to games eventually. We think he's going to be an important player one day."
Reportedly spends his summers in Michigan
It could be an awkward summer for Mursak.
According to Gregg Krupa of The Detroit News, he spends parts of his summers in Saginaw, Mich., where he played during his junior career for the OHL's Saginaw Spirit.
Mursak will certainly have a compelling story for his neighbors if Slovenia advances further through the tournament than the U.S.
Weber took the ice with teammate Phillip Danault before practice started, but didn't take part in team drills.
No timetable has been set for Weber's return to action. The Canadiens officially shut Weber down Dec. 18. Weber played through the injury but the team ruled him out indefinitely after the ailment lingered.
Weber has notched six goals and 10 assists in 26 games this season.
Andersen left Monday's game against the Anaheim Ducks after taking a skate to the head from Corey Perry, although Babcock said postgame the goaltender was "fine."
Andersen returned to practice Tuesday without incident, but Babcock said he wouldn't make a decision about Wednesday's starter until game day.
The goaltender currently sports a 2.66 goals-against average with a .921 save percentage and four shutouts.
Joffrey Lupul is still under contract with the Toronto Maple Leafs, but it doesn't appear he'll be suiting up anytime soon.
The 34-year-old hasn't played since February 2016 after having sports hernia surgery, and recently hinted at being effectively retired during an appearance on the "Member Guest" podcast.
"When I think about things like that, it’s easier to let go of the fact that your body is not in good shape and it’s probably not meant to play hockey anymore. But it’s very easy to just focus on the great moments … the playoff games or big goals and stuff like that. That’s one thing I find myself dealing with now that I’m not playing, and probably won’t be playing going forward," Lupul said, according to Sportsnet's Chris Johnston.
Lupul failed a second physical in October and the NHL ruled him eligible to be placed on long-term injured reserve. The veteran forward initially blamed the Maple Leafs for his first failed physical in September, but later apologized and said he hoped to eventually return.
Now, it seems unlikely Lupul will ever play again, which he's seemingly at peace with.
"When you’ve dedicated your life to something - a professional sport or music - there’s a lot of things that you’ve had to sacrifice along the way, as far as not being able to do," he said. "I (couldn’t) go on a vacation with friends. It was like you finish a season, you take two weeks off and then I’m back in the gym doing everything, which was great. I loved it. I miss it.
"I miss some of that stuff, but there’s also some interesting things that you can do outside of there. That part of it's really exciting."
