NHL's Top Performances: Ovechkin's Goal-Scoring Legacy, Celebrini's 100th Game, Bedard's Opening Goal Record, Panarin's Point Streak, and Schaefer's Stanley Cup Challenge
The NHL's Sunday schedule is packed with exciting matchups, including eight games with four nationally televised. Here's a breakdown of five key games and their players to watch, along with the complete game schedule.
Howe Sweet It Is: Ovechkin's Goal-Scoring Legacy
Alex Ovechkin, the Washington Capitals' captain, is on the cusp of a historic achievement. He can surpass Gordie Howe's record of 348 home games with a goal in NHL history when the Capitals host the Columbus Blue Jackets at Capital One Arena. Ovechkin, who has 46 points (28 goals, 18 assists) in 52 games against the Blue Jackets, is also tied with Howe for the most goals through 30 games in a season by a 40-year-old. With 29 points (14 goals, 15 assists) in 29 games this season, Ovechkin's six-game point streak ended in a shootout loss to the Anaheim Ducks on Friday.
Celebrate Celebrini: 100th Game for the Sharks
Macklin Celebrini, the San Jose Sharks' rising star, is expected to play his 100th NHL game when the Sharks visit the Carolina Hurricanes at Lenovo Center. Celebrini, with 103 points (39 goals, 64 assists), holds the eighth-most points in NHL history among teenagers at the time of their 100th game. He needs just two more points to surpass Ted Kennedy for seventh place. Celebrini leads the Sharks with 40 points (14 goals, 26 assists) in 29 games this season, as the team prepares for a crucial seven-game homestand.
Right on Time: Bedard's Opening Goal Record
Connor Bedard, the Chicago Blackhawks' young talent, has scored the opening goal 17 times since entering the NHL in 2023-24. He currently ranks sixth in that category. Bedard will look to extend his record when the Blackhawks face the Anaheim Ducks at Honda Center. The only players with more opening-game goals are Sidney Crosby, Leon Draisaitl, Adrian Kempe, David Pastrnak, and Artemi Panarin, each with 19 or more.
CHI@LAK: Bedard's Road Point Streak
The Blackhawks' Bedard extended his road point streak to nine games with a power-play goal. This is a remarkable achievement, showcasing his consistency and skill.
More 'Bread,' Please: Panarin's Point Streak
Artemi Panarin, the New York Rangers' star, has been on fire with 11 points (four goals, seven assists) in his past six games. Panarin's 16 assists since November 7 lead the NHL, and his 24 points are tied with Dallas Stars forward Jason Robertson. The Rangers, with points in three straight games, host the Vegas Golden Knights at Madison Square Garden.
Champing at the Bit: Schaefer's Stanley Cup Challenge
Matthew Schaefer, a rookie defenseman leading his position with 20 points (eight goals, 12 assists), nine power-play points, and the highest average ice time (23:29), will face the defending two-time Stanley Cup champion for the first time when the New York Islanders visit the Florida Panthers at Amerant Bank Arena. Schaefer has five points (one goal, four assists) in his past five games, helping the Islanders win three in a row, including two against the Tampa Bay Lightning.
The Schedule
- Colorado Avalanche at Philadelphia Flyers
- New York Islanders at Florida Panthers
- San Jose Sharks at Carolina Hurricanes
- Pittsburgh Penguins at Dallas Stars
- St. Louis Blues at Montreal Canadiens
- Vegas Golden Knights at New York Rangers
- Columbus Blue Jackets at Washington Capitals
- Chicago Blackhawks at Anaheim Ducks
