"We have to make a decision!": Washington Capitals' Alex Ovechkin shares details on his NHL future and retirement plans

Washington Capitals captain Alex Ovechkin has recently delivered a candid assessment regarding his future in the NHL, addressing his long-running speculation about retirement and what comes next after the 2025-26 season. Ovechkin, who is in the final year of his current contract with the Capitals, clarified that he has yet to decide his playing future beyond this season.

Despite intense media and fan interest, the 39-year-old said he isn't in a rush to announce retirement and has no final decision about his future beyond his current contract, and he won’t likely make a hasty decision by the end of the season. It is to be noted that the Caps are currently 29-23-7, and four points behind the Boston Bruins in the Eastern Conference wildcard race.

Alex Ovechkin addresses his NHL future with the Washington Capitals and beyond, amid playoff push

Alex Ovechkin, the Washington Capitals' captain and NHL's all-time leading goal scorer, has dropped candid insights on his post-season plans following the Olympic break. The Russian star emphasized that he has not taken any final decision about his future beyond his current contract, which is supposed to expire after this season.

Speaking to NHL beat writer Tom Gulitti, Ovechkin stated, “No, I don’t know yet. We have to make a decision. We have to talk with the family, with (Capitals owner) Ted (Leonsis), [general manager Chris Patrick], and then we’ll see.” Ovechkin stated he needs to consult with his family, Capitals team owner Ted Leonsis, and general manager Chris Patrick before committing further. On the other hand, speculation has swirled due to his age and the team's position, but he dismissed retirement talk for now.

The three-time Hart Trophy winner further stated, “We have ups and downs. It’s not about me. You see, everybody was maybe a little struggling because last year, we scored like five, six goals in a game, and it was easy.” This clearly states that he won’t be deciding anything about his future by the end of the season.


As for his performance, Ovechkin has 22 goals and 48 points in 59 games, trailing teammate Tom Wilson. However, reports suggest that last season he scored 44 goals in 65 games, including breaking Wayne Gretzky's record, setting high expectations despite a fibula injury.

It is to be noted that Ovechkin is also currently on a break, as Russia has not been invited to the 2026 Winter Olympics. The veteran player could be seen in action against the Capitals in their first game after the Olympic break, where they will lock horns against the Philadelphia Flyers.


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