Ovechkin Addresses Capitals Contract Extension Amid Playoff Push

Veteran star says decision on future will come after talking with family and team owner.

Published on Feb. 28, 2026

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Washington Capitals captain Alex Ovechkin has addressed the looming question of his contract extension, saying he will need to discuss his future with his family and team owner Ted Leonsis. The Capitals are in a tight playoff race in the Metropolitan Division, and Ovechkin's decision could have major implications for the team's short-term and long-term outlook.

Why it matters

Ovechkin is one of the greatest players in Capitals history and his future with the team will be a major storyline as they try to make a playoff push. His decision could shape the team's roster and strategy for years to come, especially as he approaches the end of his career.

The details

The 41-year-old Ovechkin said he doesn't know yet if he will re-sign with the Capitals, noting that he needs to discuss it with his family and team owner Ted Leonsis. The Capitals are currently fifth in the Metropolitan Division, 13 points behind the division leaders, and need to make up ground to reach the playoffs. Ovechkin has had a solid season so far, with 22 goals and 26 assists in 59 games.

  • Ovechkin will turn 41 years old this upcoming season.
  • The Capitals are currently in the midst of a tight playoff race in the Metropolitan Division.

The players

Alex Ovechkin

The veteran captain of the Washington Capitals, who is one of the greatest players in franchise history.

Ted Leonsis

The owner of the Washington Capitals.

Spencer Carbery

The head coach of the Washington Capitals.

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What they’re saying

“No, I don't know yet. We have to make a decision. We have to talk with the family, with Ted Leonsis, and then we'll see.”

— Alex Ovechkin (NHL.com)

“It's how I said, we have ups and downs. It's not about me. You can see everybody was maybe a little struggling because last year, we scored like five, six goals in a game and it was easy. Right now, it's a kind of a struggling to find a way to find the net and I hope this break is going to help us, and now we're going to play much better.”

— Alex Ovechkin (NHL.com)

What’s next

The Capitals will need to make a decision on Ovechkin's contract extension in the coming months, as he is set to become a free agent after this season.

The takeaway

Ovechkin's future with the Capitals is a major question mark as the team tries to make a playoff push. His decision could have long-term implications for the franchise, as they look to build around their aging superstar or potentially transition to a new era.