Every extraordinary young athlete in every major professional sport at some point in his rookie season gets subjected to the "Jordan" test - could he some day, possibly, just maybe develop into the greatest player to ever grace his sport?  The test usually involves evaluating the athlete's scoring capabilities and overall athletic ability, specifically the ability to make moves on the playing field that defy the laws of space, time and gravity, as well as his manhood, I mean courage to attempt those ridiculously over the top plays. 

At this point in the NHL season, Caps phenom Alexander Ovechkin definitely qualifies for the Jordan test.  Scoring ability? Check. His 17 goals thus far this season more than qualify.  Playmaking ability?  Check?  His 13 assists demonstrate that he also knows how to distribute the puck.  Ability to make 15,000 people say "Holy Sh#@!  Did you just see that?!?!?!?"  Check.  The guy makes the highlight reel every night.  Unfortunately, he's the only Cap who does.

But the number one thing that puts Ovechkin clearly on the Jordan watch list - the guy cannot keep his tongue in his mouth.  On every scoring opportunity, every hit, that thing is hanging out there.  Apparently it's not just limited to hockey.  He even bowls with his tongue hanging out, as evidenced at Monday night's Caps charity bowling tournament.  Not since MJ have I seen an athlete with such an inability to keep his mouth closed.  Is the tongue the secret to greatness?  Think about it.