Capitals' Alex Ovechkin still in search of historic goal

On Nov. 8, Washington Capitals forward Alex Ovechkin scored his 483rd career goal, tying the record for most NHL goals scored by a Russian-born player. For a prolific scorer like Ovechkin, who reached Sergei Fedorov's mark in 476 fewer games than his countryman, netting that go-ahead to attain sole possession of the historic mark was thought to be no problem.

Four games later, he's still looking for it. And it's not for lack of effort.

Ovechkin has had two goals disallowed since No. 483. One came the same night against the Toronto Maple Leafs, when a coach's challenge for goalie interference in the third period erased his marker.

Then another coach's challenge, this time for offsides, took away his tally against the Philadelphia Flyers on Nov. 12.

He tied his career high for shots on goal (15) against the Detroit Red Wings on Nov. 10, but in the next three tilts against the Flyers, Calgary Flames and Red Wings again, he managed 11 shots total, none of which were good for goal No. 484.

The Capitals have a five-game homestand coming up, giving Ovechkin plenty of opportunity to get the monkey off his back. A look at Washington's upcoming schedule:

Nov. 19 vs. Dallas Stars

Probable goaltender: Kari Lehtonen

With Antti Niemi getting the last start for the Stars, it's fair to say Lehtonen (who boasts a .921 save percentage this season) will be trotted out to face Ovechkin's Capitals. Expect him to make Ovi work hard for the coveted score.

Nov. 21 vs. Colorado Avalanche

Probable goaltender: Reto Berra

Berra has been rounding into form of late for the inconsistent Avalanche, which is bad news for Ovechkin's scoring hopes. Berra did give up four goals in his last game, a 5-1 loss to the Toronto Maple Leafs.

Nov. 23 vs. Edmonton Oilers

Probable goaltender: Anders Nilsson

If it doesn't happen against the Stars or Avs, the Oilers would be the ideal club for Ovi to capitalize on. Edmonton has given up an average of 3.22 goals per game this season, but Nilsson took the team's starting job from Cam Talbot on the strength of his play. He could give Ovi a run for his money.

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