Ovechkin’s Faceoff Mastery: The Plays That Fuel His Record-Breaking Chase

Washington Capitals coach Spencer Carbery smiles when discussing the few faceoff plays designed for Alex Ovechkin. From the right circle, it’s called "Shooter Back," and from the left, "Board Side O" — both of which have led to numerous goals. These plays have been so effective that every other NHL team has created their own versions, though none have Ovechkin to finish them.

Ovechkin’s legacy is built on his goal-scoring, particularly from the faceoff circle, now known as "Ovi’s Office." Over the years, his quick release and ability to score from any puck condition have made him one of the greatest goal scorers, closing in on Wayne Gretzky’s record of 894 goals.

Ovechkin's success comes from both his own skill and the Capitals’ ability to provide him with the right teammates. “All we’re trying to do is get the puck to Ovi and let him take the shot,” Carbery said.

Since Ovechkin’s first NHL goal on October 5, 2005, he’s scored 210 goals from the faceoff circle. Opposing teams struggle to stop him despite knowing where he’ll set up.

One NHL assistant coach notes that having a left-handed center like Dylan Strome, Evgeny Kuznetsov, or Nicklas Backstrom pulling the puck to Ovechkin’s forehand is key. Ovechkin’s ability to shoot even off imperfect passes is another factor that makes him so dangerous. “Ninety-nine percent of the league would fumble that puck, but Ovechkin gets it on net,” the coach says.

His ability to execute shots even when the puck is wobbling, especially from both the "Board Side O" and "Shooter Back" plays, leaves goalies little time to react. Tampa Bay’s Andrei Vasilevskiy compares Ovechkin’s shot to a knuckleball, hard to track and even harder to stop.

Even as the Capitals have faced injuries and lineup changes, they continue to set Ovechkin up for success. This season, they lead the NHL in goals per game (3.58) and have a top-10 power play (23.7%).

Ovechkin’s chase of Gretzky’s record has captured the attention of teammates, with many hoping to be on the ice when history is made. “Everyone wants to be part of that moment,” said Tom Wilson, “and I’ll never forget being a part of it.”