Report: “Something different” about Ovechkin this season

Washington Capitals superstar Alex Ovechkin is no Russian doll. The big sniper has played his entire career more like a Russian bear. At 6’3” and 235 lbs, Ovechkin is an imposing physical force who uses his size and speed to simply overpower and dominate the opposition. So far, he’s used this strategy to score seven goals in just two games to start the 2017-18 season. After scoring just 33 last season, with a career low 16 at even strength, is it possible that the 32-year-old can still get back to his 40+ or even 50+ goal scoring days?

Following last playoffs’ disappointing loss to the Pittsburgh Penguins, Ovechkin and indeed much of the Capitals offense were asked to make some offseason changes to help increase foot speed to keep up with the younger, faster paced NHL. Ovechkin got the message and is now sending one back to his team. He put an emphasis on cardio exercise this summer and looks lighter and trimmer than he has in years.

“I think, organizationally, Alex took it to heart that he’s got to keep evolving,” said head coach Barry Trotz said. “I mean, it’s tougher when you get older. You’ve got to work out harder, you’ve got to do all that stuff. When you’re younger, you could probably cut a couple corners, because the body responds. As you get older, that body has to be the driving force. I think he put a little more work into that area.”

And it shows. While many may have rolled their eyes at Trotz’s 50 goal expectations for Ovechkin… the Caps’ captain is currently on pace for 287 goals on the season.