Call it the Thirty-one-year itch. Gordie Howe 1963, Wayne Gretzky 1994 and, now Alex Ovechkin in 2025 as the all-time goal scoring torch was passed at UBS Arena on April 6. Long-time Caps TV Analyst Craig Laughlin joins the show to share his thoughts on covering The Great 8 since the very beginning of his NHL career.

In addition to covering the various races over the final week-and-a-half of the regular season, we'll also talk about a subculture in the NHL which is becoming more evident: Despite the ferocity of competition, teams and players ensuring they honor opponents and officials for a job well done.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[02:00] - In "Three Things You Need to Pay Attention To," Neil describes the atmosphere in UBS Arena before we hit on Ottawa and Minnesota strengthening their holds on playoffs spots.

[07:50] - Longtime Capitals TV analyst Craig Laughlin joins the show. Before getting into Alex Ovechkin, he discusses a recent personal ordeal having undergone recent open heart surgery.

[14:04] - Laughlin shares what he's observed about Ovechkin behind the scenes since coming into the league in 2005.

[17:45] - Ovechkin's rejuvenation following a 2023-24 season in which he looked like he might be at the end of his career.

[24:10] - The significance of this record when put in relation to Barry Bonds, Emmitt Smith and LeBron James.

[28:59] - In a world of political turmoil, how is it a Russian is wildly cheered in eclipsing a record of a Canadian legend?

[32:21] - With 895 in the books, 900 right around the corner, are 1000 goals possible?

[35:25] - The Caps recent play has been mid-level. Laughlin assesses where the team needs to improve with the record behind them.

[46:20] - The authentication process for OV's jerseys, sticks and pucks.

[48:11] - The playoff races.

[57:02] - Let's talk other superstars: Crosby-Pastrnak/MacKinnon Kucherov.

[1:02:20] - Vic gets on his TV soapbox about directors cutting away from intimate moments for wide shots and crowd shots.

[1:05:55] - Player notes

[1:08:05] - The Human Side of the Country focuses on the reverence and respect seen with more increased frequency around NHL arenas.

X: https://twitter.com/NHLWraparound

Neil Smith: https://twitter.com/NYCNeil

Vic Morren: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vic-morren-7038737/

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