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4w ago

Ovechkin Hints at Return After Capitals’ Season Finale

Washington wants clarity before the June draft to set its offseason plan.

Apr 14, 2026; Columbus, Ohio, USA; Washington Capitals left wing Alex Ovechkin (8) waits for the face-off against the Columbus Blue Jackets during the third period at Nationwide Arena. Mandatory Credit: Russell LaBounty-Imagn Images
Apr 14, 2026; Elmont, New York, USA; Carolina Hurricanes left wing Mark Jankowski (77) celebrates his goal against the New York Islanders during the third period at UBS Arena. Mandatory Credit: Dennis Schneidler-Imagn Images
Apr 14, 2026; Columbus, Ohio, USA; Washington Capitals defenseman Jakob Chychrun (6) celebrates his goal against the Columbus Blue Jackets during the third period at Nationwide Arena. Mandatory Credit: Russell LaBounty-Imagn Images
Apr 14, 2026; Saint Paul, Minnesota, USA; Minnesota Wild center Hunter Haight (37) warms up before the game against the Anaheim Ducks at Grand Casino Arena. Mandatory Credit: Matt Blewett-Imagn Images

Overview

  • The Capitals closed Tuesday’s season in Columbus with a 2-1 win, where Alex Ovechkin assisted on the go-ahead goal and left to chants of “one more year” from traveling fans.
  • At Thursday’s locker cleanout, Ovechkin said he hopes the Blue Jackets game was not his last, adding he will decide this summer after talks with coach Spencer Carbery, GM Chris Patrick, ownership and his family.
  • The 40-year-old played all 82 games, becoming only the fifth NHL player age 40 or older to do so, and he led Washington with 32 goals and 64 points.
  • His five-year, $47.5 million contract has expired, and team officials have conveyed a preference for a decision by the June draft to guide cap and roster moves.
  • The NHL’s all-time regular-season goals leader at 929 has previously said he’d like to finish with Dynamo Moscow, underscoring how his choice affects both his legacy and the Capitals’ next steps.