Washington Capitals left wing Alex Ovechkin (8) celebrates after his winning goal in overtime of Game 1 of a first-round NHL hockey playoff series against the Montreal Canadiens, Monday, April 21, 2025, in Washington. (AP Photo/Nick Wass)
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COMMENTATOR’S BOOTH — Alex Ovechkin probably doesn’t need much help on the ice after becoming the NHL’s all-time leading goalscorer earlier this month, but a little extra luck can’t hurt.
The Washington Capitals and Montreal Canadiens were tied 2-2 in overtime in their opening game of the Stanley Cup Playoffs on Monday when 25-year ESPN veteran commentator Sean McDonough dropped the following fun fact.
“There are a few things Ovechkin hasn’t done, not many,” McDonough said. “But he’s never scored an overtime game-winning goal in the playoffs.”
Ten seconds later, Ovechkin crashed the crease to send home a loose puck and win Game 1 for the home side Caps.
Sports fans often bemoan commentators spoiling moments when talking about free-throw streaks or no-hitters, but Monday’s premonition from McDonough was an example of the rare “reverse commentator’s curse.”
Now, Ovechkin has another accolade to add to his Hall of Fame resume.
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