Getty Image / Michael Reaves
NHL history was made on Tuesday night after Alexander Ovechkin recorded his 800th career goal. It was a big night for the Washington Capitals star, as he led them to a win over the Chicago Blackhawks.
However, fans can’t get over the fact that such a historic moment was covered by a questionable broadcast team.
ESPN shares Alexander Ovechkin’s 800th career goal. He finds his way to the net and is positioned perfectly to catch the rebound. He pushes the puck through the goal for his third of the night. While Ovechkin celebrates his hat trick the announcers pretty much fumble the call.
First of all, it’s not like Steve Levy is the best play-by-play announcer out there. He’s not terrible, but he’s not great either. Additionally, why is the color analyst talking over the call? Give the play a watch and listen to this crew butcher Alexander Ovechkin’s historic moment.
ALEX OVECHKIN’S 8️⃣0️⃣0️⃣TH CAREER GOAL 👏 pic.twitter.com/IvurRAhCVt
— ESPN (@espn) December 14, 2022
As you can imagine, fans are not too happy with the announcing crew, as most of the comments on the highlight are people complaining about them.
Honestly I was thinking too much talking. Let the play breathe (although admittedly tougher on the road). Also don’t know who the second guy is but he just talked over the goal call.
— Maverick Johnson (@MKEBucksCat) December 14, 2022
People are mainly upset with the color analyst.
Poor Steve Levy’s call is trampled over by the color analyst. Bad job.
— Nicholas Bailey (@Mottslayer) December 14, 2022
It really could have been so much better. Especially considering how historic of a moment this was.
Last night’s broadcast team leaves a lot to be desired. So flat and uninspiring. Ovi’s historic moment deserved better than that.
— Bighead D (@jamdar1000) December 14, 2022
Couldn’t have said it any better.
Your broadcast of this game is absolutely horrific. Do better.
— Weeone (@Weeone20) December 14, 2022
Maybe ESPN will make some changes moving forward. Apparently, they had three people in the booth. Similar to how ESPN would conduct Monday Night Football before hiring Joe Buck and Troy Aikman.
In the end, Alexander Ovechkin records his 800th career goal and that’s what matters.