Fri Apr 18 00:30:00 UTC 2025: ## Ovechkin and Crosby to Face Off in Final Game of the Season

**Pittsburgh, PA** – In a fitting end to a season of mixed results for the Pittsburgh Penguins, their final game on Thursday will feature a highly anticipated matchup against the Washington Capitals. The game will mark another chapter in the storied rivalry between Penguins captain Sidney Crosby and Capitals superstar Alex Ovechkin, who recently surpassed Wayne Gretzky’s all-time goal record. Despite the Capitals’ playoff berth and the opportunity to rest him, Ovechkin will play.

While their rivalry was initially intense, Crosby and Ovechkin have developed a mutual respect and friendship over the years. Crosby commented on their evolving relationship, emphasizing the impact of shared experiences beyond the ice, including All-Star games and other events. Ovechkin echoed these sentiments on the Pat McAfee Show last week, expressing pride in their combined impact on the NHL and confirming he is not yet retiring.

The Penguins, who will miss the playoffs this year, will face the Capitals on fan appreciation night. Alex Nedeljkovic will start in goal for Pittsburgh. Despite the lack of postseason implications, the Penguins are expected to give a strong performance against their longtime rivals. The game promises to be a memorable conclusion to a season, and potentially, a final chapter in one of hockey’s greatest rivalries.

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