Ovechkin honors goal promise to young cancer survivor

Hats off to Alex Ovechkin.

The Washington Capitals captain pocketed three goals against the Toronto Maple Leafs on Saturday, and in the process fulfilled a promise to a 13-year-old fan and cancer survivor.

Alex Luey - who plays for the Niagara Falls Flyers and a survivor of osteosarcoma cancer - attended Saturday's contest after learning he'd have the chance to meet his hero at the game.

"It's an emotional moment. But I'm going to try to do the best I can, and this organization can, and do what every hockey player can to give (him) happiness and a smile," Ovechkin told Tom Gulitti of NHL.com on Thursday.

To begin the evening, Luey was invited into the locker room by Capitals coach Barry Trotz, where he announced the team's starting lineup. It was then when Ovechkin promised a goal for Luey.

Ovechkin would score not only once, but three times, fulfilling his pledge and serving as a perfect backdrop to the Maple Leafs' Hockey Fights Cancer Night.

Luey later met his hero following Washington's 4-2 victory, when the Capitals captain presented him with a collection of autographed gear.