Both Alex Ovechkin and Sidney Crosby provided three goals for their teams in tonight’s game two between the Washington Capitals and the Pittsburgh Penguins.  But Steckel’s goal in the second period made the difference for the Caps who won 4-3.

Ovechkin’s hat trick was the first for a Capital in a playoffs game since 1993. And Crosby’s was the Penguins’ first in the playoffs since 1997.  It was an exciting game, made more so by the always energetic Alex Ovechkin.

While it has been said many times, it bears repeating, there is no more entertaining and energetic player to watch in the NHL than Alex Ovechkin!

Although an avid sports fan and athlete most of my life, I had never really watched hockey until about a year ago.  This is probably because hockey is not given much attention in the southeast.  However, since my first game in Atlanta on March 21, 2008, Thrashers vs. Caps, I have been hooked, and this is due in large part to the energy of the Capitals team.

I have yet to see a player who is more excited, intense, and involved in every second of every game than Ovechkin.  And he doesn’t just celebrate his own victories—he seems just as excited about his teammate’s goals as his own. 

Check out his celebration for Steckel’s goal tonight.

Whether or not you like the Caps, you can’t deny the energy Ovey brings to the team and the game.  Hope they can keep it up in Pittsburgh for game three!