There's no denying the fact Washington's Alex Ovechkin has become the ultimate crowd pleaser.

What's not to like? Those yellow laces, that crooked smile and his ability to leap into the air before crashing against the glass have consistently revved up the hometown faithful. For Ovechkin, playing in front of the home fans is always something special, as it is for all players in the league. This past season, a pair of Russians, including Ovechkin and Pittsburgh's Evgeni Malkin, proved to be stellar in front of the locals.

While Ovechkin led the league in total goals (65) and points (112) in 2007-08, Malkin finished as the NHL leader in points on home ice. Consider it just another stirring chapter in the rivalry between the two, which began as early as the 2004 NHL Entry Draft when Washington tabbed Ovechkin with the first overall pick before Pittsburgh followed with their selection of Malkin minutes later at No. 2.

Malkin registered a league-high 64 points in 41 games at Mellon Arena in Pittsburgh last season. "Ovie" was a close second with 57 points in 41 games at the Verizon Center. Each has not only become a fan favourite, but bona-fide entertainer within the league.

Here's a look at the top point producers who enjoyed a little home cookin' in 2007-08:
http://senators.nhl.com/team/app/?se...ticleid=381466