Maybe D.C. isn’t exactly what you’d call a hockey town, but plenty of fans are cheering the return of the Washington Capitals. After a year long NHL lock out, the Caps are back with a young line up, some new faces and one hockey phenom, left wing forward Alexander Ovechkin.

The top pick in the 2004 NHL draft, the 20-year old Russian rookie has been lauded as hockey’s next big thing. His performance on the ice so far has exceeded the expectations of fans, teammates and coaches. As of last night, Ovechkin leads the Caps with 11 points (including six goals) and he’s delivered more then his share of bone shaking checks. His stellar performance so far has many predicting that he’ll give this years top draft pick, Canadian Sidney Crosby, a fair chase for the rookie of the year Calder Trophy. DCist has seen Ovechkin play, and yeah, he really is just that good.

Despite his limited English (which he continues to improve at) Ovechkin’s charm, sportsmanship and commitment to the team comes across clearly. He was nice enough to answer a few questions for DCist in his trademark cut and dry, yet endearing, manner.

Image from NHL.com