Darius Kasparaitis and Alex Ovechkin training in Miami (Photo by Darius Kasparaitis exclusively for RG)
Alex Ovechkin has never been one to back down from a challenge. As he inches closer to Wayne Gretzky’s all-time goal record, the Washington Capitals’ captain is as determined as ever—not just to etch his name atop the NHL’s scoring list, but to add another Stanley Cup to his legacy.
Recently, former NHL defenseman Darius Kasparaitis trained alongside Ovechkin, offering a rare glimpse into the Russian superstar’s mindset as he prepares for another grueling season.
No Pressure, Just Hockey
Kasparaitis, known for his own hard-nosed playing style, was struck by Ovechkin’s composure as he continues his chase for NHL immortality.
“We trained with Sasha in the gym and on the ice several times. He is in a good mood. He does not think about any records, he just plays hockey,” Kasparaitis shared exclusively to RG. “It seems that he does not feel any pressure from the need to break Gretzky's record, he just plays as he has played his whole life.”
With just a few seasons left before he turns 40, Ovechkin is embracing his experience and the balance it brings.
The Evolution of a Hockey Machine
Kasparaitis has witnessed Ovechkin’s journey firsthand, dating back to their time together at the 2006 Olympics in Turin. Even then, Ovechkin’s potential was undeniable.x
“At that moment, I saw a young, cheerful guy with a good sense of humor. He instantly became part of the team,” Kasparaitis recalled. “He was a young player with great potential, but no one knew, of course, that he could do something like this. Gretzky's goal record seemed eternal at that moment.”
Over the years, Ovechkin has continued to defy expectations. Kasparaitis credits his rare physical gifts for his longevity and continued dominance.
“He has complex natural abilities. He is very strong. I still don't understand how you can beat him on the ice. He’s just a machine,” he said. “Eric Lindros didn't seem as big to me as Ovechkin seems now. A monster.”
A Stanley Cup and a Historic Record?
While all eyes are on Ovechkin’s pursuit of Gretzky’s 894 goals, the Capitals forward isn’t satisfied with just rewriting the record books. He still has his sights set on winning another championship.
“Sasha and I laughed — I told him: ‘Now you are going for Gretzky's record, and you can also win the Stanley Cup.’ He replied: ‘Yeah, that would be cool,’” Kasparaitis revealed.
Kasparaitis believes the Capitals have a real shot at contending this season, though he also has his eyes on another team with championship aspirations.
“I think the favorites this year are Washington and Toronto. I want the Maple Leafs to win a Stanley Cup for the first time in over 60 years.”
With Ovechkin’s drive and the Capitals’ ambition, hockey fans could witness history on two fronts—a new goal-scoring king and a potential second Stanley Cup for one of the game’s greatest players. One thing is certain: Ovechkin isn’t slowing down anytime soon.
Sergey has been in sports journalism since 2007 as a reporter, editor, and manager. He has covered the Olympic Games, soccer World Cups, the World Cup of Hockey in 2016, the European championships, the Stanley Cup Finals, IOC events, and many others. Sergey interviewed the sport's greatest athletes, coaches, and executives. Since 2016, he has been an Independent Senior Editor of NHL.com/ru.
