Able to avoid - or at least temporarily stave off - an avalanche of criticism from fans, pundits, and detractors alike, Alex Ovechkin led the way Saturday for the Washington Capitals, who avoided a five-game defeat at the hands of the Pittsburgh Penguins with a 3-1 win.
In 20 minutes of ice time, Ovechkin scored with the first shot Washington registered on goal, peppered in nine more toward the target, bagged an assist, and absolutely lit a fire under T.J. Oshie.
"When you see a guy like him that can beat you in so many different ways come out and bring that type of energy, you better get on board or just stay on the bench," Oshie said, according to NHL.com's Tom Gulitti.
Ovechkin's urgency might have been palpable, but his head coach discerned patience, too.
"I think that's what Ovechkin's learned is that he doesn't have to do it all by himself, and that the great thing about being a part of a team," Barry Trotz remarked after the game.
Unfortunately for Ovechkin, only two wins in their next two tries will prevent the individual from being painted responsible.
