Alex Ovechkin says 2026-27 will be his final NHL season
Washington Capitals star Alex Ovechkin announced that the 2026-27 campaign will be his last in the NHL, ending a 22-year career with the team.
Washington Capitals forward Alex Ovechkin, the NHL’s all-time leading goal scorer, said the 2026-27 season will be his final year in the league. The 41-year-old announced the decision in a statement released by the Capitals on Monday, adding that he and his family made the choice over the summer.
"My family and I decided this summer that this will be my final year in the NHL," Ovechkin said.
He told teammates that the announcement was intended to give them the chance to celebrate his career before the team’s first home game of the season against the Pittsburgh Penguins. Ovechkin expressed excitement about the upcoming season and gratitude to fans, family and colleagues.
"I am excited about this season with my teammates, and we will do everything we can to make this year special," he added.
The Capitals confirmed that Ovechkin will retire after completing his 22nd season, all spent with Washington. He leaves the league as the record holder for most regular-season goals, having reached 929 goals after surpassing Wayne Gretzky in April 2025. His résumé includes nine Maurice "Rocket" Richard Trophies, a Hart Memorial Trophy, an Art Ross Trophy, and a Conn Smythe Trophy from the Capitals’ 2018 Stanley Cup run.
Ovechkin’s retirement will make him eligible for the Hockey Hall of Fame three years after the season ends, with the possibility of early induction similar to past legends.