Alex Ovechkin`s pursuit of Wayne Gretzky`s all-time goal record dominated hockey headlines this season.
However, two players set to face him in the first playoff round remain unimpressed.
Montreal Canadiens` key players, Patrik Laine and Ivan Demidov, when questioned after Saturday`s practice about facing Ovechkin as they prepare for the playoff series against the Capitals, showed indifference.
`Doesn`t matter, couldn`t care less,` Laine stated plainly.
Demidov echoed a similar sentiment, quipping, `I prefer Malkin much more.`
The Washington Capitals enter the playoffs as the top seed in the Eastern Conference, while the Canadiens secured their playoff berth after a strong performance in the season`s final months.
Despite the contrasting positions in the standings, the Canadiens clearly possess significant confidence as they approach the series.
Tristan Blackwood