Alex Ovechkin’s singular one-timer and the NHL’s great power-play illusion

Alex Ovechkin is a true master when it comes to power-play one-timers. Time and time again, he has delivered jaw-dropping goals from his sweet spot at the top left circle, leaving both fans and opponents in awe. His skill has become legendary, with 14 of his 2022-23 power-play goals coming from these deadly one-timer shots. Even in previous seasons, he showcased his prowess with 9 of 16 PPGs and a staggering 92 of total 239 career power-play goals. Ovechkin’s power-play one-timers have been the stuff of hockey legend, leaving a lasting impact on the Washington Capitals’ history.

However, the 2023 season tells a different story. Despite Ovechkin’s talent, he hasn’t been able to score a power-play one-timer from his signature spot through 14 games. This could be attributed to various factors, such as the absence of his longtime setup man Nicklas Backstrom or opponents finding ways to counter his tactics. It may also be a sign of Ovechkin’s natural aging process, despite his impressive 96.68 mph shot. Ovechkin, after 1,361 career games, could be realizing that his signature move isn’t as dangerous as it once was.

While Ovechkin’s dominance with one-timers has been unparalleled, it has also reshaped how power plays are operated across the NHL. For years, his success has led other teams to adopt the 1-3-1 power-play setup, with Ovechkin serving as the gold standard. Players like Steven Stamkos, Cole Caufield, Alex DeBrincat, David Pastrnak, Tage Thompson, and Mika Zibanejad are all prime examples of athletes who have been influenced by Ovechkin’s game-changing style. It has become clear that the threat of the one-timer is still a force to be reckoned with, and teams are now focusing on lower and closer net shots to capitalize on power plays.

These changes are reshaping how teams approach penalty kills and power plays, suggesting that the legacy of Alex Ovechkin will extend beyond his scoring prowess. His impact on the sport has been immeasurable, and his influence on how power plays and penalty kills operate will continue to be felt for years to come.

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Sarah Anderson

Sarah Anderson dives into the fast-paced world of NHL hockey. Her coverage includes game analysis, player spotlights, and the latest news from the ice. Sarah’s dedication to the sport ensures that hockey enthusiasts stay informed about the NHL’s thrilling action.