Alex Ovechkin Announces 2026-27 Season Will Be His Final NHL Year
Washington Capitals forward Alex Ovechkin said the 2026-27 season will be his last, delivering the news to teammates before the team's first home game.
Washington Capitals star Alex Ovechkin told teammates in the locker room that the 2026-27 season will be his final year in the NHL. In a statement released by the team, Ovechkin said, "I know in my heart it's the right decision," and added that he wanted to announce it before the first home game to thank the people who have supported him and his family.
The 41-year-old, a three-time Hart Trophy winner, is entering his 22nd season. Ovechkin, a 12-time All-Star, holds the NHL record with 929 career goals and ranks second in Washington franchise assists with 759.
The Capitals opened the season with a 5-2 win over the Carolina Hurricanes and then fell 3-1 to the Tampa Bay Lightning. They remain contenders for a playoff spot. The team will face the Pittsburgh Penguins, led by Sidney Crosby, later this week, with three additional meetings scheduled before the regular season ends on April 10.
If Washington qualifies for the postseason, Ovechkin could extend his farewell appearances beyond the regular-season finale.