Ovechkin Jokes About Stealing Holl's Goal in Capitals Win
Alex Ovechkin waved his stick at Justin Holl's third-period shot and joked about claiming the goal, but the score stayed with Holl. Holl's goal from the blue line gave Washington a 4-3 lead, and the Capitals went on to beat Montreal 5-4. Ovechkin earned an assist on the play, leaving him two assists short of Nicklas Backstrom's franchise record.
Justin Holl’s third-period shot from the blue line navigated a crowded lane and put Washington ahead 4-3 at 12:29, helping the Capitals finish with a 5-4 win over Montreal. Alex Ovechkin, stationed in the right circle, swiped at the puck as it passed and later joked he might claim the goal, though it stayed credited to Holl.
Ovechkin’s assist was his 760th, leaving him two behind Nicklas Backstrom’s franchise record of 762. Holl, recalled from Hershey, became the first Capitals defenseman to score in each of his first two games with the team. Coach Spencer Carbery joked he was chasing the Rocket.
This playful moment may give Capitals fans and neutral viewers a memorable clip, while drawing extra attention to Holl’s unexpected scoring start and Ovechkin’s assist milestone. Broadcasters and social-media users could amplify the humor, and Montreal supporters may view it as a minor footnote in a loss. Its broader societal effect is likely limited, but it could reinforce hockey’s lighter, personality-driven side for casual audiences.