In a thrilling playoff opener, Alex Ovechkin, the NHL's all-time leading scorer, showcased his exceptional talent by scoring his first career playoff overtime goal, sealing a 3-2 victory for the Washington Capitals over the Montreal Canadiens. Ovechkin's remarkable performance included opening the scoring in the first period and assisting on Anthony Beauvillier's goal in the second, bringing his career playoff tally to 74 goals.

At 39 years old, Ovechkin became the second-oldest player in NHL history to achieve a multi-goal playoff game that featured an overtime winner, a feat previously accomplished by Igor Larionov at 41. For the Capitals, this victory was critical as they clinched a playoff berth early in the season but had struggled in the final stretch of the regular season. Ovechkin's goal not only marked a significant personal milestone but also initiated Washington's quest towards playoff success, highlighting that experience and skill can indeed shine through, even late in a career.