On April 12, 2025, the Washington Capitals took a tough hit, losing 7-0 to the Columbus Blue Jackets. Without captain Alex Ovechkin in the lineup, the Capitals found themselves dealing with some tough challenges on both sides of the ice, which really affected how they played offensively and defensively. Columbus really took charge from the get-go, scoring two goals in the first five minutes and keeping that momentum going for the rest of the match.

Adam Fantilli was the standout for the Blue Jackets, netting two goals, while goaltender Jet Greaves achieved a milestone with his first NHL shutout, turning away all 22 shots directed at him. For a team leading the Eastern Conference with a record of 51-21-9 after 81 games with 111 points, the loss undoubtedly raised alarm. It appears that coach Spencer Carbery has decided to take matters into his own hands. So what did he do? Get Clay Stevenson on board!

On X, Bailey Johnson provided an update about the team, announcing, “Clay Stevenson will start tonight for the Caps, making his NHL debut in net. Alex Ovechkin will play along with the regular forwards. Spencer Carbery said there are some things they’re working through on the back end; Martin Fehervary and Matt Roy didn’t skate.”

The team’s lackluster performance in the recent defeat was starkly highlighted by Ovechkin’s absence, underscoring one of their most disappointing outings this season. Furthermore, the absence of star defenseman Jakob Chychrun also hurt the squad. So Carbery recognized the necessity for a transformation, emphasizing that the team must discover methods to enhance and adjust when confronted with challenges. The choice to initiate Stevenson demonstrates a dedication to seeking out new possibilities and revitalizing the roster.

After the humiliating 7-0 defeat, Ovechkin made his return to the team, yet the situation remained largely unchanged. In a noteworthy matchup, the Capitals clinched a 3-1 victory over the New York Islanders. Today, they face off against the Pittsburgh Penguins in their final regular-season game. Are you aware that Ovi has received yet another honor for surpassing Wayne Gretzky’s all-time goal record?

Alex Ovechkin becoming Washington’s favorite

On April 11, 2025, Washington, D.C., commemorated a notable event with the observance of “Alex Ovechkin Day,” honoring the legendary hockey star from Russia. The official Washington Capitals account on X shared a statement from Mayor Muriel Bowser, highlighting essential information that all Washington residents need to know about Ovi.

“On April 6 in New York, Ovi scored his 895th career NHL goal against the Islanders, surpassing Gretzky to become the all-time leading goal scorer in NHL history, and today at Capital One Arena, we come together as Washingtonians, as hockey fans, and admirers of the Great 8, to celebrate Ovi on this amazing accomplishment and to thank him for being with the Capitals his entire NHL career and being a vital component to what makes us the District of Champions. NOW, THEREFORE, I, THE MAYOR OF WASHINGTON, DC do hereby proclaim April 11, 2025, as ‘ALEX OVECHKIN DAY’ in Washington, DC and do commend this observance to all Washingtonians,” the mayor of Washington, DC declared.

Ovi has dedicated 20 seasons to the Capitals, a remarkable level of commitment in the ever-changing landscape of the NHL. The team has experienced a rollercoaster of challenges and triumphs, yet one player has consistently shown unwavering commitment to the franchise, even guiding them to the Stanley Cup victory in 2018. With an outstanding season under his belt, securing the top seed in the Eastern Conference, Ovi has shattered Wayne Gretzky’s long-standing all-time goal record. Only time will reveal the remarkable feats he will achieve during the playoffs.