The Greatest Russian Ever

We are literally watching history every time Alexander Ovechkin scores from here on. Ovechkin tied Sergei Fedorov's record for goals scored by a Russian-born player tonight with his 483rd goal in his career, so his next goal will literally be historical. There was never really any doubt that Ovechkin would have a shot at becoming the most prolific goal scorer among his countrymen, so the only question would be against which team he'd accomplish the feat. For a few moments, it appeared that the Toronto Maple Leafs would be the answer, but a disallowed goal kept him at 483 for the moment.

Here is the moment tonight when Ovechkin pulled even with Fedorov.

It's almost fitting that Sergei Fedorov gets his Hall of Fame ring on Monday, and the Washington Capitals play the Detroit Red Wings, Fedorov's former team, on Tuesday where Ovechkin will have a chance to break the mark set by Fedorov. It's like watching the torch being passed from one legend to what will eventually be another legendary and Hall of Fame career.

Records are set and meant to be broken eventually. Some will never be broken simply due to the evolving nature of the game. But every once in a while, there's a generational talent that comes along and redefines the sport for the next generation. Alexander Ovechkin is that generational talent that the next generation of Russian snipers will achieve to be just as Sergei Fedorov was for the generation that followed him.

We are witnessing a legend being written before our eyes. Celebrate each and every goal that Ovechkin scores from here on because he is a generational talent. One that deserves to be celebrated.

Until next time, keep your sticks on the ice!