- Alexander Ovechkin has scored the most goals (836) and points (1,523) in franchise history.
- Nicklas Bäckström has the most assists (762) in Capitals history.
- Olaf Kölzig won an incredible 301 games as a member of the Capitals.
The Washington Capitals have been blessed to have some of the NHL’s greatest scoring talents wear their jersey. These players have played a pivotal role in defining the Capitals’ legacy, impacting their NHL odds and fan expectations alike. Here are the best Washington Capitals players of all time:
Best Washington Capitals Players of All Time
| Rank | Player | Position | Capitals Years |
| 1 | Alexander Ovechkin | Left Wing | 2005-Present |
| 2 | Rod Langway | Defence | 1982-1993 |
| 3 | Peter Bondra | Right Wing | 1990-2004 |
| 4 | Nicklas Backstrom | Centre | 2007-Present |
| 5 | Olaf Kolzig | Goalie | 1989-2008 |
1. Alexander Ovechkin
Alex Ovechkin is not only a Capitals legend but a hockey icon. Since being drafted first overall in 2005, Ovi has shattered records, becoming the Capitals’ all-time leading goal scorer and challenging Wayne Gretzky’s all-time goal-scoring record.
Alex Ovechkin scored for the sixth straight game. His five different goal streaks of at least six contests are tied with Steven Stamkos for the most among active players.#NHLStats: https://t.co/pfmYWeZ9ws pic.twitter.com/1X2lq0ahyI
— NHL Public Relations (@PR_NHL) February 14, 2024
His electrifying, physical brand of play and his unrivalled sniping ability led the Capitals to their first Stanley Cup in 2018, cementing his legacy as one of the greatest ever to lace up his skates.
2. Rod Langway
Dubbed the “Secretary of Defense” by fans, Rod Langway’s arrival in Washington signalled a turning point for the franchise. His spectacular defensive play and leadership were instrumental in transforming the Capitals into perennial playoff contenders.
Langway won two Norris Trophies in Washington and still tops the franchise plus/minus charts at +116. “Hot Rod” was so dominant as a pure defensive defenceman that he finished in the top five in Hart Memorial Trophy rankings for three straight years from 1982-84.
3. Peter Bondra
A sniper of the highest order, Peter Bondra’s speed and scoring touch captivated opponents and fans. He scored a phenomenal 472 goals for the Capitals and was the franchise’s all-time leader in goals and points until that Ovechkin guy showed up.
Bondra was the face of the franchise through the 1990s, leading the team in scoring five times and leaving fans in awe with his knack for scoring jaw-dropping goals.
4. Nicklas Backstrom
The quintessential Capitals playmaker Nicklas Bäckström’s vision and hockey IQ have made him the Capitals’ all-time assist leader with 762. His chemistry with Ovechkin has been the foundation of the team’s offence for over a decade, making them one of the most feared duos in the NHL.
He sits behind only Ovechkin in games played (1,105) and points (1,033) in Capitals history.
5. Olaf Kolzig
Affectionately remembered as “Olie the Goalie,” Olaf Kölzig anchored the Washington Capitals net for nearly two decades. Throughout his tenure, Kölzig’s formidable presence in goal was a constant for the Capitals, leading the team to numerous playoff appearances and a memorable run to the 1998 Stanley Cup Finals.
Olie the Goalie. Godzilla. @Capitals legend Olaf Kolzig will always be remembered for amazing saves like this beauty from 1998. pic.twitter.com/apMcMpmZML
— NHL (@NHL) April 6, 2021
Kölzig holds the record for most wins (301), games played (701), and shutouts (35) in Capitals history. His remarkable career was highlighted by winning the Vezina Trophy in 2000 as the NHL’s top goaltender.
