Ovechkin Experiments With Different Sticks As He Chases Gretzky

As Washington Capitals captain Alex Ovechkin chases down Wayne Gretzky’s all-time goals record and sits nine goals away from 800, he’s experimenting with different hockey sticks for his wicked shot.

Ovechkin has noticeably changed stick models for the last two games, using the CCM Jetspeed FT5 Pro. He had been using the Ribcor Trigger ASY. It’s unclear if this will be a full-time change or not for the Great 8, who is under contract with CCM.

Alex Ovechkin using the Jetspeed FT5 Pro against the Devils. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)

There are notable differences between the two sticks. The Ribcor Trigger ASY had a low kick point, which allows for easy-to-load shots and quick releases. The Jetspeed FT5 Pro features a hybrid kick point, which combines mid-kick and low-kick point sticks, though it’s closer to a mid-kick point. This creates a “power hinge effect” and helps promote speed and power for shooters. It’s meant for snipers and players like Ovechkin who love to shoot the puck, but it’s a versatile stick that also enhances passing and stickhandling.

Ovechkin uses a 100 flex.

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The Ascent Blade 2 is a lighter blade that gives the shooter a better puck feel, and the shaft is lightweight as well thanks to the Skeleton+ Technology. The stick also uses Sigma STP Carbon weave material, which makes it stronger, stiffer and more durable than past JetSpeed sticks.

This isn’t the first time the Great 8 has tried out some new gear this season. He recently tried a TOVI stick with brand ambassadors attending a practice at MedStar Capitals Iceplex. However, he didn’t stick with it and didn’t appear to take a big liking to it. The TOVI stick is one of the first sticks that doesn’t require tape, and it features a perforated blade for shooters.

Ovechkin with the TOVI stick. (Sammi Silber/WHN)

Ovechkin has mainly used the Trigger over the last few years with CCM, though he’s experimented some with the Jetspeed in the past as well. During his time with Bauer from 2011-2017, Ovechkin used the Bauer Supreme Total One stick. Way back in the day early in his career with CCM, he used the CCM Vector. Washington’s captain also has a huge stick collection consisting of twigs from various legends and former players.

The Great 8 switched back to the Ribcor against the Vancouver Canucks on Tuesday and struck twice in the first period to break Wayne Gretzky’s all-time road goals record. In the third, he tried the Jetspeed again. Ovechkin sits at 793 goals and is nine from passing Gordie Howe for second on the NHL’s all-time goals list and 102 from breaking Gretzky’s all-time record.