"Alex Ovechkin's relationship with Evgeni Malkin has ranged from brotherhood to belligerence, from Olympic roommates to NHL rivals. But the Washington Capitals' falling star has no trouble reaching the consensus these days regarding his Russian countryman.

"He's the top player in the league," Ovechkin said Saturday at Consol Energy Center.

Ovechkin's tone was that of admiration.

"Malkin," he said, "right now dominates."

Almost eight years following one of the most top-heavy drafts in NHL history, the first two players selected are moving in opposite directions. Malkin, chosen No. 2, has jumped into the NHL scoring lead and is a leading candidate for MVP honors. All the while, Ovechkin's star has faded.

"The stats aren't important to me," Malkin said. "I don't worry about that. I just want to win games.""