The latest next big thing: Russian prospect Alexander Ovechkin, 18, a lock to be the first pick in the 2004 draft, has the size, all-around ability and demeanor to light up the NHL.

Alexander Ovechkin is a Moscow Dynamo man, always has been and, in his heart, always will be. Born in Moscow, Ovechkin grew up idolizing Dynamo legend Alexander Maltsev. It doesn't matter that Maltsev retired a year before Ovechkin was born. Maltsev arguably is the greatest Dynamo player ever, and Ovechkin is shooting for that level.

Or so we presume. Though Ovechkin's English is pretty good, he chose to use an interpreter for this interview. And to whatever question is asked, the response through the interpreter is "No problem."

"Alexander, what was your main goal going into the season?"

"No problem. It has been a good season."

"Why ...