Short article in the Post about Ovechkin.  That kid is too good to be true.  He skates circles around people, stickhandles, passes, shoots, scores, and checks.  He is driven (as you'll see in the article) not only for hockey but even in improving his English.  On top of it all, he's genuinely humble.  If things work out right and the Caps play this hand well, it could be that he will become the true franchise superstar that this team has wanted/needed to really establish itself as a force in the league.  Even if it doesn't quite get there, at least, it's a pleasure to watch him play.  I'd like to see only two more things -- 1. His teammates step up and pitch in more than they do now, or, at least, to catch his enthusiasm; 2. Alexander Semin to get his butt back here and follow AO's example in how to act like a pro player instead of an immature brat.  And...oh yeah....for Olie to see less rubber than the Goodyear factory!

 

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2005/10/21/AR2005102101912.html

Thanks, Roleman- I'm right there with you in hoping he's as real at the end as he seems to be here at the beginning. Let's hope Tarek's words hit home to the other players on this year's team, and those that follow in their footsteps:

But to those who watch him on a daily basis, teammates included, it was a reminder of Ovechkin's rare ability to single-handedly change a game, and his intense desire to win.

He can't do it all on his own, but with a little help..... who knows?

Caps' hockey- gotta love it!