'Glad it worked': After move to right wing, Capitals captain Ovechkin regains scoring touch

Washington Capitals' Alex Ovechkin, of Russia, skates during NHL hockey practice at the Kettler Capitals Iceplex in Arlington, Va., Tuesday, April 30, 2013. By scoring 22 times in the last 21 games, Ovechkin claimed his third goal-scoring title and led the Capitals to the Southeast Division title. Yes, Alexander the Great is back at his best and will face the New York Rangers in the playoffs. (AP Photo/Susan Walsh) (The Associated Press)

3b334d37-Capital Ovechkin Is Back Hockey

Washington Capitals' Alex Ovechkin, of Russia, looks on during NHL hockey practice at the Kettler Capitals Iceplex in Arlington, Va., Tuesday, April 30, 2013. By scoring 22 times in the last 21 games, Ovechkin claimed his third goal-scoring title and led the Capitals to the Southeast Division title. Yes, Alexander the Great is back at his best and will face the New York Rangers in the playoffs. (AP Photo/Susan Walsh) (The Associated Press)

ARLINGTON, Va. – Alex Ovechkin is back to being Alexander the Great, the player who leads the NHL in goals and carries his team to division titles.

There is a difference now. Ovechkin is playing right wing instead of left wing, something head coach Adam Oates suggested during his job interview with Capitals general manager George McPhee.

At first, Ovechkin was not a huge fan of the move. He says he's happy he came around to the idea, adding, "I'm glad it worked."

By scoring 22 times in the last 21 regular-season games, Ovechkin ended up with a league-best 32 goals for his third Maurice "Rocket" Richard Trophy and first since 2009.

Ovechkin and the Capitals open a first-round playoff series against the New York Rangers on Thursday in Washington.