Capitals’ Alex Ovechkin to retire following 2026-27 season
The greatest goal scorer in the game’s history is going to hang up his skates.
On Monday, it was announced that Washington Capitals captain Alex Ovechkin is going to retire following the 2026-27 season.
Ovechkin first delivered the news to his teammates in a video later posted on social media.
“I’m pretty sure, for me, for my family…it’s very important for you guys to know first,” Ovechkin said. “It’s sad, but it is what it is. We have an unbelievable team this year…82 games left. Let’s make the playoffs. Let’s have fun.”
Ovechkin also addressed the youngsters on his team, telling them time goes by fast.
“Enjoy the moment because times fly. For young guys, first-year or experienced guys. I remember that moment…It seems like yesterday was my first year, and right now, this is my 22nd year.”
Ovechkin has been a superstar since he entered the league following the 2004-05 lockout. He helped make the Capitals a relevant franchise and, along with Sidney Crosby, helped the NHL become a popular topic in sports culture once again.
The Russian sniper admits that there’s potential to do great things in his final season, with the hopes of Washington making a decent run this spring.
“It’s hard, but let’s enjoy it and do something special this year,” Ovechkin concluded.
The 41-year-old will go down as the greatest goal scorer the game has ever seen. In 1,575 regular-season games, he has scored 929 goals and 759 assists for 1,688 points – good for 10th all-time. He has reached the 50-goal mark an impressive nine times, tied for the most historically with Gretzky and Mike Bossy. Ovechkin has won the Maurice “Rocket” Richard Trophy a record nine times, the Hart Trophy and Ted Lindsay Award three times, the 2007-08 Art Ross Trophy, and the Conn Smythe Trophy when he led the Capitals to their first Stanley Cup in 2018.
So far in 2026-27, Ovi has posted an assist in two games. He’s looking to eclipse Gordie Howe for the most 25-goal seasons in NHL history, while also trying to reach 20 goals for a 22nd consecutive season.
