Best of 2009 Interview: Alex Ovechkin, Washington Capitals Forward

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LAST SEASON, after scoring a particularly unbelievable goal against the Montreal Canadiens that saw him stealing the puck at center ice, falling on his back, and somehow poking the puck past the Canadiens' net minder as he fell, Ovechkin looked to the stands and cupped his hand to one ear, as if to say, "I can't hear you," to the capacity crowd. The Verizon Center erupted, giving Ovechkin a hockey equivalent of a curtain call. He smiled, flashing the toothless grin that's become an iconic D.C. image since he joined the team in 2005.

When he's not egging the fans on, Ovechkin's crashing into the boards, grabbing his teammates or dropping his stick as if it's too hot to handle. Sure, his antics are a bit ridiculous, but it's why we love him. You voted him Best D.C. Athlete, so we asked the Great 8 for his Best of 2009.

» Restaurant: Ovechkin couldn't decide, but he says he likes to go to Chopsticks in Georgetown for sushi and Russia House for a little taste of home.

» Bar: "My basement," Ovechkin says, where he indulges in beer, wine and vodka.

» D.C. Athlete: Gilbert Arenas of the Wizards, who also calls Verizon Center home. "I love watching the way he plays," Ovechkin says.

» Place to Drive: Ovechkin's a big car aficionado — he's boasted about his Mercedes-Benz going 180 miles per hour. "The road is the best spot to drive — just anywhere," he says.

» Best Local Athlete: Alex Ovechkin

» Explore a full list of the year's winners at the Best of 2009 index.

Photo by Lawrence Luk for Express