Crosby and Ovechkin Rivalry Reaches Milestone

NHL superstars set to face off for 100th and 101st time in legendary careers

Apr. 9, 2026 at 5:44pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A fractured, multi-perspective painting depicting a hockey game, with the players' forms broken down into sharp, overlapping geometric shapes in the colors of the Penguins and Capitals uniforms.As two of hockey's all-time greats face off for the 100th time, their legendary rivalry is captured in a cubist-inspired artistic rendering.Today in Pittsburgh

Sidney Crosby of the Pittsburgh Penguins and Alex Ovechkin of the Washington Capitals, two of the greatest players in NHL history, will meet on the ice for the 100th and 101st times in their illustrious careers as their teams face off in a pair of games.

Why it matters

The Crosby-Ovechkin rivalry is one of the most storied in modern sports, with the two players dominating the NHL for nearly two decades. As they approach the end of their careers, this milestone matchup is a bittersweet moment for hockey fans who have witnessed their epic battles over the years.

The details

Crosby and Ovechkin were both drafted in the 2004 NHL Entry Draft, with Crosby going 1st overall to the Penguins and Ovechkin going 1st overall to the Capitals. Since then, the two superstars have combined for 7 Hart Trophies (MVP award), 8 Rocket Richard Trophies (leading goal scorer), and 5 Stanley Cup championships. Their teams have met in the playoffs 5 times, with each player leading his team to victory on multiple occasions.

  • Crosby and Ovechkin will face off for the 100th time on April 12, 2026.
  • They will meet for the 101st time on April 14, 2026.

The players

Sidney Crosby

A center for the Pittsburgh Penguins, Crosby is considered one of the greatest players of his generation and is a future first-ballot Hall of Famer.

Alex Ovechkin

A left winger for the Washington Capitals, Ovechkin is the NHL's all-time leading goal scorer and a surefire Hall of Famer.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“This rivalry has defined an era of hockey. Crosby and Ovechkin are two all-time greats who have pushed each other to new heights.”

— Wayne Gretzky, Hockey Hall of Famer

“I'm just trying to enjoy these last few matchups with Sid. We've had so many epic battles over the years, and I'm grateful we've both been able to play at such a high level for so long.”

— Alex Ovechkin

What’s next

The Penguins and Capitals will meet in the playoffs for the 6th time in their storied rivalry if both teams qualify for the postseason.

The takeaway

The Crosby-Ovechkin rivalry has elevated the NHL to new heights, captivating fans with their skill, competitiveness, and sportsmanship. As they approach the end of their careers, this milestone matchup is a bittersweet reminder of the indelible mark they have left on the game.