Alex Ovechkin, the guy who smashed Wayne Gretzky’s 31-year-old NHL goal-scoring record with his 895th career goal, gets passed over when a rising star is asked about his dream teammate. Yeah, you read that right. The Washington Capitals legend, a household name since his 2005 debut, wasn’t the first pick for one of the team’s brightest prospects. So, what’s the story here?

Ovechkin’s resume speaks for itself. He’s been the heart and soul of the Capitals for two decades, leading them to their lone Stanley Cup in 2018 and racking up 40-goal seasons like it’s a hobby—14 times in 20 years, to be exact. Even this season, despite a fractured fibula sidelining him for a month, he’s still lighting up the scoreboard. But when Hutson, the Capitals’ 2024 second-round pick and the freshly minted 2025 Tim Taylor Award winner as NCAA Rookie of the Year, sat down with Mike Bartner on YouTube, he had someone else in mind.

Cole Hutson, who’s weighing whether to sign an entry-level contract with the Capitals or return for another season with the Boston University Terriers, was asked who he’d love to play alongside in the NHL. His answer? “I think Tom Wilson. Just getting a chance to play with him would be pretty cool i think uh obviously he’s a he’s a big guy” Cole said. “He’s a fighter and someone you need on a team for a guy like me that’s not as big and someone tries to kill me, he’ll be the first guy to step in.” Fair point—Wilson’s got Cole’s back.

And Wilson? He’s no slouch. The six-foot-four, 220-pound Toronto-born power forward is a force of nature. Teammates can’t stop talking about how “big” and “strong” he is, how he’s “fast” and “creates a lot of space” on the ice. This season, he’s tallied 33 goals and 32 assists in 81 games. Just last night, Wilson’s bone-crunching hit set the stage for Brandon Duhaime’s game-tying goal in the third period, sparking a Capitals rally to a 5-2 win over Montreal in Game 4. With a 3-1 series lead, the Capitals are one win away from advancing, and Wilson’s physicality is a big reason why.

So, Ovechkin might’ve been overlooked this time, but with Wilson and prospects like Cole in the mix, the Capitals’ future looks as bright as their past. Wednesday night’s Game 5 at Capital One Arena could be the next chapter in their playoff story. Who’s ready for it?

Other role models on the Caps roster apart from Alex Ovechkin

The Washington Capitals’ 2025 playoff run showcases not just Alex Ovechkin’s brilliance but also the emergence of other players as role models through their performance, leadership, and unique contributions.

Dylan Strome, a 28-year-old center, has become a cornerstone of Washington’s top line. After being let go by the Chicago Blackhawks, Strome has found his groove, exemplified by his Game 4 performance against the Montreal Canadiens: a goal, an assist, and a plus-2 rating in a 5-2 victory. His seven-game point streak, with five goals and seven assists, highlights his offensive prowess and reliability, making him a model of resilience and clutch play for younger players. His work ethic, evidenced by three blocked shots and two hits in the playoffs, adds to his influence.

Logan Thompson, the 28-year-old goaltender, has solidified his role as a playoff standout. With a 2-0-0 record, a .951 save percentage, and a 1.47 goals-against average, Thompson’s calm presence in net has been pivotal in Washington’s series lead against Montreal. His ability to step up in high-stakes moments, building on his regular-season success, positions him as a role model for consistency and mental toughness.

Brandon Duhaime, a checking-line forward, brings grit and inspiration to the Capitals. Known for blocking shots and delivering hits, Duhaime’s unique contribution includes his literal barking in the locker room, boosting team morale. Let’s not forget Duhaime’s game tying goal for the Caps in the third period.

These players, through their on-ice excellence and off-ice leadership, exemplify the depth of character within the Capitals’ roster, inspiring teammates and fans alike.