Capitals' Alex Ovechkin 'Pretty Sure' He'll Extend 21-Year NHL Career

The 40-year-old captain said he would 'probably not' play for another NHL franchise, but is open to playing in Russia after his United States tenure.

Apr. 16, 2026 at 10:34pm

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A cubist, fragmented painting depicting the silhouette of a hockey player in motion, with sharp, overlapping planes of color and form representing the various accomplishments and highlights of Alex Ovechkin's storied NHL career.Ovechkin's illustrious NHL career is deconstructed into a dynamic, geometric portrait capturing his unparalleled scoring prowess and lasting impact on the game.Columbus Today

Washington Capitals forward Alex Ovechkin is 'pretty sure' the 2025-26 NHL campaign was not his last season, he told reporters Thursday. Ovechkin, who joined the Capitals as the top pick in the 2004 NHL Draft, is to become an unrestricted free agent July 1. The 40-year-old captain said he would 'probably not' play for another NHL franchise, but is open to playing in Russia after his United States tenure.

Why it matters

Ovechkin is one of the most iconic and accomplished players in NHL history, holding numerous league records. His potential retirement or move to Russia would have major implications for the Capitals franchise and the league as a whole.

The details

Ovechkin totaled 32 goals and 32 assists over 82 appearances this season. The Russian, who broke Wayne Gretzky's record for the most goals in NHL history last season, pushed his career total to 929. His 7,108 shorts on goal, 331 power play goals and 141 game-winning goals also are the most in league history. The 2017-18 Stanley Cup winner and three-time Hart Trophy winner ranks 10th in NHL history with 1,687 points. His 758 assists are 49th in league history. Ovechkin's 34 hat tricks are the fourth-most all-time.

  • Ovechkin's 21st season ended with a loss to the Columbus Blue Jackets on Tuesday in Columbus, Ohio.
  • Ovechkin is to become an unrestricted free agent July 1.

The players

Alex Ovechkin

A 40-year-old forward for the Washington Capitals who is one of the most accomplished players in NHL history, holding numerous league records including most goals scored.

Chris Patrick

The general manager of the Washington Capitals.

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What they’re saying

“'To be honest with you, I'm pretty sure it's not my last game. I hope it's not my last game, against Columbus.'”

— Alex Ovechkin, Washington Capitals forward

“'The kids are already asking me, 'Dad, are you staying or no?' And I tell them, 'We'll see.' They're excited. They want me to come back. They love the city. They love the team. They love the boys.'”

— Alex Ovechkin, Washington Capitals forward

“'I have to make a decision to see where we're at. The team, family. Obviously, the family is going to support me, my wife and kids.'”

— Alex Ovechkin, Washington Capitals forward

What’s next

Ovechkin said he has not spoken with Capitals general manager Chris Patrick about his status for next season, but joked that he wished Patrick offered him a two-year contract.

The takeaway

Ovechkin's potential retirement or move to Russia would be a major loss for the NHL, as he is one of the league's all-time greats. However, his desire to keep playing and his family's excitement about him returning suggest he may extend his storied career with the Capitals for at least one more season.