Star forwards Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin have publicly praised Alex Ovechkin for his impact on the NHL, a shift in perception that would have seemed unlikely in the past. The duo acknowledged the contributions of a player whose career has often been defined by both dominance and controversy. Their remarks highlight a growing recognition of Ovechkin’s influence beyond statistics, reshaping how his legacy is viewed within the league. The evolving perspective underscores a broader conversation about player legacies and their lasting effects on hockey.

Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin Malkin appreciate Alex Ovechkin and what he brought to the NHL. At one point, the very notion of that being true might have been a ...