On this day in 2006, just 44 games into his NHL career, Alex Ovechkin delivered one of the most iconic and jaw-dropping goals in hockey history. The goal took place during a game between the Washington Capitals and the Phoenix Coyotes on January 16, 2006, when Ovechkin was still a rookie in the league.

The goal came in the third period of a tied game when Ovechkin picked up the puck near the blue line, skating down the wing and creating a one-on-one opportunity with Coyotes goaltender Brian Boucher. What followed was a move that would become a hallmark of Ovechkin’s career—a stunning highlight-reel goal that left both fans and commentators in awe.

With remarkable speed and precision, Ovechkin skated around Boucher, then seemingly out of nowhere, used his body to contort and sling the puck into the net while falling to the ice. The move, now known as “The Goal,” is often regarded as one of the most skillful and audacious plays ever seen in the NHL.

The sheer creativity and athleticism of the goal instantly made Ovechkin a household name and cemented his place as one of hockey’s brightest stars. It was a perfect introduction to the unique style of play that Ovechkin would continue to showcase throughout his legendary career.

That goal was just the beginning of what would become one of the most prolific careers in the history of the NHL. Ovechkin has since broken numerous records, become a multi-time Hart Trophy winner, and solidified his legacy as one of the greatest players to ever play the game. But it was that moment, on January 16, 2006, when he made history, marking the start of an incredible journey.

Even years later, fans still remember “The Goal” as one of the greatest moments in NHL history—proof of Alex Ovechkin’s brilliance and creativity on the ice.