Sidney Crosby on Alex Ovechkin's Historic Run: 'Pretty Incredible, We Knew It Was a Matter of Time'

The Sidney Crosby-Alex Ovechkin rivalry has been one of the best in sports over the last couple decades. And while there's been lots to celebrate over the years, and lots of heat in the battle, right now it's about sitting back and witnessing greatness.

Crosby spoke about watching Ovechkin tie Wayne Gretzky's all-time goal record, as he admitted he was glued to the T.V hoping to witness history. "It was pretty exciting," Crosby told The Athletic's Josh Yohe. "Just that last couple of minutes, when he kept pushing, trying to get that next one. For anyone who is a fan of the game and appreciates what he's doing, it's pretty cool to see. I thought he was going to get it last night. What he's done this year is pretty incredible. Matter of time."

Ovechkin hit career goal #894 against the Chicago Blackhawks on Friday night, and gets a chance to set the NHL record on Long Island Sunday, against the Islanders.

"As far as my age, I don't think about it a whole lot. I just try to prepare for the next one."

Sidney Crosby speaks Alex Ovechkin tying Wayne Gretzky's all-time goal record, and still enjoying the game at the age of 37. pic.twitter.com/rAKDqG56D4
— Sportsnet (@Sportsnet) April 5, 2025

Crosby and Ovechkin made their NHL debuts during the 2005-06 season, and will be skating together all the way to the NHL Hall of Fame one day. Considering all the hype, and pressure for them to match the hype coming into the NHL, the two have delivered on expectations and lived up to the endless hype. Crosby has also earned his share of history this campaign, hitting the 600-goal and 1,600-point plateaus while setting an NHL record with his 20th consecutive point-per-game season.

The Penguins and Capitals faceoff one more time this regular season in Pittsburgh, on April 17.