As the NHL’s 2024 Stanley Cup playoffs approach, the fortunes of longtime rivals Alex Ovechkin and Sidney Crosby couldn’t be more different. Ovechkin, chasing Wayne Gretzky’s all-time goal-scoring record, has been on a hot streak lately, scoring 18 goals in his last 24 games to lead the Washington Capitals into playoff contention. Meanwhile, Crosby and the Pittsburgh Penguins have been struggling, with Crosby’s production dropping off significantly and the team falling out of playoff contention.
Last season, both the Capitals and Penguins saw their long streaks of consecutive playoff appearances come to an end. After missing the playoffs, the Capitals made changes that have paid off, with young players like Connor McMichael and Hendrix Lapierre stepping up in the absence of key veterans. In contrast, the Penguins doubled down on their veteran core, but continue to struggle to stay in playoff contention despite Crosby’s strong play.
The Penguins underwent changes in ownership and management, with a renewed commitment to a ‘win-now’ approach built on veteran players. Despite this, the team has been unable to secure a spot in the playoffs, leading to uncertainty about Crosby’s future with the team as his contract nears its end. Both Crosby and Ovechkin have been loyal to their respective teams, but the question now arises whether Crosby will consider other options as the Penguins look to rebuild.
Both Crosby and Ovechkin have signed team-friendly contracts with their respective teams, but as their careers progress, future contract negotiations will be key. Ovechkin recently signed a five-year extension with the Capitals, while Crosby’s contract is set to expire after next season. The decision on whether Crosby will remain with the Penguins or explore other opportunities will have a significant impact on the future of both players and their teams.
As the NHL season winds down and the playoffs approach, the contrasting fortunes of Ovechkin and Crosby highlight the challenges facing veteran players in a league that is increasingly focused on youth and speed. With their legacies secure as two of the greatest players of their generation, the decisions they make in the coming months will shape the next phase of their careers and have a lasting impact on the teams that they have been synonymous with for so long.
