In the final regular-season game, Sidney Crosby and Alex Ovechkin demonstrated why they are considered two of the game's greatest as the Pittsburgh Penguins defeated the Washington Capitals 5-2. Ovechkin capped off a historic season with his 897th career goal, while Crosby finished his 20th season with a goal and an assist, reaching the 90-point mark for the ninth time. This matchup had little at stake, with the Capitals already securing the top seed in the playoffs and the Penguins missing out.

Despite the Penguins' rebuilding phase, Bryan Rust shined with two goals, including a highlight-reel backhand from Crosby. As the Capitals gear up for their playoff run against the Montreal Canadiens, they will aim for their second Stanley Cup after a painful exit earlier in their postseason history. Ovechkin's 44 goals this season not only secured him the title of goal king but also solidified his place in NHL history.

As Alex Ovechkin concludes a remarkable regular season for the Washington Capitals, it's fitting he faces off against his long-time rival Sidney Crosby and the Pittsburgh Penguins. Their parallel careers have become synonymous with revitalizing the NHL, akin to the famous rivalry between Larry Bird and Magic Johnson in the NBA.

Ovechkin's historical achievement of breaking Wayne Gretzky’s all-time goal record solidifies his legacy, and both players have shown tremendous growth since entering the league after the 2004 lockout. The NHL has thrived during this era, with revenues tripling as their rivalry captured fans' imaginations, marking a shift from low-scoring games to an era defined by dynamic play.

While Crosby has been successful in clinching three Stanley Cups, Ovechkin balanced the rivalry by leading the Capitals to victory in 2018, proving that both players are not only rivals but also mutual respect and admiration for each other’s prowess on the ice.

In a recent NHL player poll, Toronto Maple Leafs captain Auston Matthews was voted as the most fashionable player, tying with Boston's David Pastrnak. Matthews also ranked fifth in the most complete player category, showcasing his versatility on the ice. Pittsburgh's Sidney Crosby continues to impress, leading three categories, including the most complete player. Edmonton's Connor McDavid was recognized as the best forward and best skater, highlighting his exceptional speed and skill.

The poll, conducted among 663 players, also recognized other talents. Florida's Aleksander Barkov and Colorado's Nathan MacKinnon were mentioned for their skills, while Andrei Vasilevskiy of Tampa Bay was acknowledged as the best goalie. The survey reflects players' perspectives on their peers, emphasizing both on-ice performance and off-ice style.

NHL players have voted, and Auston Matthews of the Toronto Maple Leafs has emerged as the most fashionable player in the league, tying with Boston Bruins' David Pastrnak. The annual NHL Players’ Association (NHLPA) player poll saw Matthews receive 15.75% of the votes, showcasing his stylish suits and unique footwear. His teammate, William Nylander, also ranked high, securing 12.9% of the votes. The poll confirms that Sidney Crosby remains a revered figure in the NHL, being recognized as the most complete player, the smartest overall player, and the best choice for face-offs. Connor McDavid, on the other hand, was voted the best overall forward and best skater, reinforcing his dominance in the league.

In the latest NHL Players' Association poll, Sidney Crosby retains his title as the league's most complete player, earning 33.81% of the votes. However, Aleksander Barkov has significantly narrowed the gap, receiving 30.95% and closing the vote difference from 140 to just 18. Crosby also topped the charts as the smartest player and the most reliable for faceoffs. Connor McDavid dominated both the best overall forward and skater categories, while Cale Makar was recognized as the best defenseman. The goaltending category surprised many, with Connor Hellebuyck finishing third behind Andrei Vasilevskiy and Igor Shesterkin. Other notable mentions include David Pastrnak and Auston Matthews for fashion sense, and the Bell Centre in Montreal for best ice.