Capitals Legend Alex Ovechkin Discusses Playoff Push

Veteran forward focused on leading Capitals to postseason berth with 23 games left

Feb. 23, 2026 at 3:36am

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With the Washington Capitals having 23 games left in the regular season following the Olympic break, veteran forward Alex Ovechkin is focused on leading his team to the playoffs rather than discussing his own future and potential retirement.

Why it matters

Ovechkin is a legendary player who has spent his entire 20-year NHL career with the Capitals, leading the team to a Stanley Cup championship in 2018. As he nears the end of his playing days, his performance and leadership will be crucial in determining whether the Capitals can extend their streak of playoff appearances.

The details

The Capitals currently sit outside of the playoff picture, and Ovechkin knows the team will need to win nearly every remaining game to secure a postseason berth. The 41-year-old forward is determined to lead his team to the playoffs rather than dwell on questions about his future and potential retirement.

  • The Capitals have 23 games remaining in the regular season following the Olympic break.

The players

Alex Ovechkin

A 41-year-old forward who has spent his entire 20-year NHL career with the Washington Capitals, leading the team to a Stanley Cup championship in 2018.

Washington Capitals

An NHL team based in Washington, D.C. that Ovechkin has played for his entire career.

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What they’re saying

“We're going to have to win almost every game to make the playoffs”

— Alex Ovechkin, Veteran Forward (wn.com)

What’s next

The Capitals will need to win nearly every one of their remaining 23 games to secure a playoff spot, putting immense pressure on Ovechkin and the team to perform down the stretch.

The takeaway

As one of the greatest players in Capitals history, Ovechkin's focus on leading his team to the playoffs rather than discussing his own future demonstrates his unwavering commitment to the franchise and his desire to add another championship before retiring.