Kucherov and Ovechkin became one of the main contenders for the Hart Trophy

Washington forward Alexander Ovechkin and Tampa forward Nikita Kucherov are among the top ten contenders for the Hart Trophy of the National Hockey League (NHL) regular season Most Valuable Player award. This was announced on March 14 on the official website of the NHL.

The first place in the ranking is occupied by Colorado forward Nathan McKinnon. He broke the 100-point mark in his first season. The second place is taken by Edmonton striker Leon Draisaitl. Also in the top three was Winnipeg goalkeeper Connor Hellebuyck.

Kucherov took the fourth place in the ranking, scoring 30 points. Ovechkin and David Pastrniak of the Boston Bruins share sixth place.

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Ovechkin played his 1,475th career match against the Anaheim Ducks on Tuesday, March 11, beating Stanley Cup winner Doug Gilmore (1,474). Thus, according to this indicator, the Russian came in 28th place.