Pascal Leclaire, the goaltender who allowed Alex Ovechkin's first NHL goal in 2005, reflects on this moment nearly 20 years later with fondness. Despite being on the receiving end of five goals from Ovechkin in his career, Leclaire perceives his role in history positively. He humorously notes that he gave Ovechkin confidence right off the bat and now appreciates the impact on his personal narrative, particularly as he shares it with his daughters, who are starting to learn about hockey.
I never thought I was going to end up in history talks, but it does give me a good story now and then.
I always joke that I gave him confidence right off the bat.
I'd like to have a jersey from him signed just as a souvenir because I was part of it.
I think it's great for the game that we have something like that happening in front of our eyes.
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