The relationship between Alexander Ovechkin and Sidney Crosby has evolved a lot over the years, so much so that the two men have become good friends. The two rivals also combined their efforts Friday evening during the skills competition of the National Hockey League (NHL).
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Both athletes arrived on the Bettman circuit at the same time, during the 2005-2006 season. The respective captains of the Washington Capitals and Pittsburgh Penguins automatically became the faces of the league and their matchups always got the crowds going.
In their late thirties, Ovechkin and Crosby still have the rage to win, but they are also able to appreciate each other’s exploits.
“I think that over time, you understand that it can heat up and it’s intense on the ice. We both want to be successful, but we’ve enjoyed playing against each other for so long,” Sid the Kid said on Friday, as reported by NHL.com.
Thursday, the Russian had also commented on his relationship with the Nova Scotian.
“He still enjoys playing hockey. I still enjoy playing hockey,” Ovechkin told the “Pittsburgh Post-Gazette”. I’m sure when we retire we’ll go have a few beers together to talk about all this and what’s happened over the years.”
The charmed crowd
At the skills competition, the two star players formed a tandem for the breakaway event, but a surprise guest joined in the dance. This was none other than the son of “Ovi”, Sergei. The little boy served Roberto Luongo a cup of coffee, stirring up the crowd as he passed.
“It was just pure joy,” Crosby said after the event, according to the NHL website.
“It’s a special moment and the fans love it [Sergei]. We both love him. It’s great for the game and for both of them and obviously for Sergei too,” Ovechkin added.
No need to mention that the trio won the competition.