Alex Ovechkin’s 22nd NHL season will also be his last.
Ovechkin, the NHL’s all-time leading goal scorer, announced Monday that the 2026-27 season will be his final one in the league. The decision comes two days before the Washington Capitals host longtime rival Sidney Crosby and the Pittsburgh Penguins in their home opener at Capital One Arena.
Ovechkin’s message reads:
My family and I decided this summer that this will be my final year in the NHL. I love this game so much, but I know in my heart it’s the right decision.
It was important for me to make this announcement before our first home game, so I have the chance to thank all the people around the game, everyone who has been so important to me and my family and helped me through good times and tough losses. I wouldn’t have been able to achieve everything I have in my life without them.
I am excited about this season with my teammates, and we will do everything we can to make this year special. I am going to enjoy every moment with my family, my boys, our fans and everyone who has been part of my hockey career.
See you Wednesday, babes!
Ovechkin shared his decision with the team first, making a speech in front of the entire locker room on Monday morning.
Alex Ovechkin announces 2026-27 will be his final year to teammates
“This is going to be my last year,” Ovechkin said. “Like, I’m pretty sure it’s for me, for my family, it’s very important you guys know first. It’s sad. But you know, it is what it is. We have a unbelievable team this year. 82 games left. Let’s make the playoffs, let’s have fun, and enjoy the moment because you know, times fly for young guys who are first year or experienced guys. I remember that moment and, enjoy the time, because how I said times fly. It seems like yesterday I was here my first year and right now, this is my 22nd year. You know it goes like this.”
He then snapped his fingers.
“Yeah, it’s hard but let’s enjoy it and, let’s do some special thing this year.”
The team gave Ovechkin a standing ovation once he finished speaking. Tom Wilson, long assumed to be the team’s next captain, was the first one to come over to embrace Ovechkin followed by Dylan Strome as everyone stood and clapped. The two players assisted on Ovechkin’s record-breaking 895th goal.
Importantly, Ovechkin said in the release that this will be his final season “in the NHL,” not necessarily his final season playing hockey. He has repeatedly said that he wants the final game of his playing career to come with his hometown club, Dynamo Moscow.
This story is developing. Check back later for updates.
