Pascal Leclaire, the former goaltender of the Columbus Blue Jackets, recently found himself on the receiving end of a heartfelt gesture from none other than Washington Capitals star, Alex Ovechkin. During TVA's coverage of the Capitals-Oilers game on February 23, 2025, Leclaire unveiled a special gift: a signed jersey from Ovechkin adorned with the playful inscription, "You were number 1 :)" This act was not just a friendly nod; it was a celebration of both their intertwined histories and the beginning of Ovechkin's storied NHL career.
Back on October 5, 2005, Ovechkin made his NHL debut against the Columbus Blue Jackets, where he scored two of his eventual 886 career goals on Leclaire. "Well, we’ll say it, I’m the one who put [the goal chase] on the map," Leclaire quipped during the broadcast, reflecting on his unique place within Ovechkin's legacy.
Ovechkin’s rise to prominence has been meteoric, and as he chases Wayne Gretzky's all-time goal record of 894, the fact he scored his very first goals against Leclaire carries significant nostalgia. Leclaire, now serving as an analyst for TVA, shared the touching story with viewers, mentioning how his daughters were initially skeptical of his claim of having played against such a superstar. "My daughters didn’t believe me... So, I contacted Washington, and they were very fine. Ovi sent me a signed jersey… But hey, it proves the kind of person he is. He is a good person, extremely generous of his time," Leclaire expressed with evident affection for Ovechkin.
The connection remains significant not just for Leclaire but for Ovechkin as well, as the jersey symbolizes the roots of his legendary career. Reflecting on Ovechkin’s playing style, Leclaire noted, "You know, look, it’s his first goal in the National League... But his flair to find himself, to be forgotten in free spaces like... that's really what makes him quite effective.” Leclaire painted the picture of Ovechkin as he came onto the ice, showcasing the undeniable talent and potential the player had even back then.
It's worth mentioning how Ovechkin's achievements continue to impress hockey fans around the world. Just nine goals away from breaking Gretzky's record, he stands poised to score again, with many speculating it could happen against none other than the Columbus Blue Jackets on April 12th or 13th, 2025. With 181 different goalies on his list of victims throughout his illustrious career, it's historic to think the first among them is now celebrating Ovechkin's success from the sidelines.
Looking back, Ovechkin has scored five goals against Leclaire throughout their encounters, cementing the goaltender's place as part of the scoring lore associated with Ovechkin's rise. Leclaire’s career spanned seven seasons, primarily with the Blue Jackets, where he achieved a record of 45-55-12, providing ample opportunity for learning through experience on the ice.
Currently, Ovechkin plays for a Capitals team with an impressive record of 43-15-8, putting them among the top contenders this NHL season. While Ovechkin captures headlines for his relentless pursuit of history, the heartwarming exchange of jerseys speaks volumes about camaraderie and respect within the sport. Leclaire's story is more than just one of reminiscing; it highlights the human aspect of competition where former rivals can become friends.
For Ovechkin, who is frequently described as generous with his time and interactions, this gesture toward Leclaire encapsulates the character he possesses beyond the ice. The signed jersey is not just memorabilia but rather serves as a lasting reminder of the moments they shared—the first goals, the chasing of records, and the enduring sportsmanship defined by the NHL.
Fans of both the Columbus Blue Jackets and Washington Capitals will undoubtedly look forward to the upcoming games, where history could repeat itself as Ovechkin approaches this historic milestone. Each celebration will blend the present with the past, reminding everyone of how far the sport has come and the memories created along the way.
Indeed, as Leclaire wore his gifted jersey during the postgame coverage, he conveyed well wishes for Ovechkin as he battles to increase his goal count. Not simply a gifted athlete, Ovechkin continues to be the center of attention, and as history draws near, this act of kindness strengthens the fabric of the league’s legacy.