Alex Ovechkin did not score in Washington’s 4-2 loss to Minnesota on Thursday, remaining at 889 career goals, just six away from breaking Wayne Gretzky’s all-time record.
However, Ovechkin was involved in a memorable moment during the game. After the final buzzer, he rushed toward the tunnel behind the bench to ensure all of the Capitals players came back onto the ice to shake hands with retiring Minnesota goalie Marc-Andre Fleury. Ovechkin was the first to meet Fleury at center ice, sharing a hug and a brief laugh.
Fleury, who is in his 21st season and likely playing his final year in the NHL, had been on the bench all night while Filip Gustavsson played in goal for the Wild. Before the game, Ovechkin had informed his teammates that this would be their last matchup against Fleury, who had faced the Capitals many times during his 13 seasons with Pittsburgh. Ovechkin has scored 28 goals in 47 games against Fleury, his highest tally against any goaltender.
Washington coach Spencer Carbery praised Marc-Andre Fleury for his long and impressive career, noting the many battles he had with the Capitals and Alex Ovechkin. Carbery described Ovechkin’s gesture of shaking hands and sending Fleury off as classy, emphasizing how remarkable Fleury’s career has been.
Dylan Strome, a center for the Capitals who briefly played with Marc-Andre Fleury in Chicago, praised Fleury as one of the best people in hockey. Strome emphasized that showing respect for Fleury at the end of the game was important.
The Minnesota Wild were also moved by the gesture, although they weren’t surprised. Goalie Filip Gustavsson noted that Fleury is well-loved across the league, and everyone enjoys playing against him.
Wild defenseman Jonas Brodin shared his admiration for Fleury, calling him a great person and one of the best teammates he’s ever had. Brodin added that it’s special to have played alongside someone like Fleury, and that it’s something players will always remember when they look back on their careers.