NHL
Alex Ovechkin Announces 2026-27 Will Be His Final NHL Season
The greatest goal scorer in NHL history is taking one final lap. Alex Ovechkin announced Monday that the 2026-27 season, his 22nd in the league, will be his last.
"My family and I decided this summer that this will be my final year in the NHL," Ovechkin, 41, said in a statement released by the Capitals. "I love this game so much, but I know in my heart it's the right decision."
The timing was poetic: the announcement came on the 21st anniversary of his NHL debut, when he scored twice. Ovechkin sits at 929 career goals, well clear of Wayne Gretzky's once-thought-unbreakable mark of 894, which he passed in April 2025. He became the first player in league history to reach 900 goals last season.
"It was important for me to make this announcement before our first home game, so I have the chance to thank all the people around the game," Ovechkin said. "I am going to enjoy every moment with my family, my boys, our fans and everyone who has been part of my hockey career. See you Wednesday, babes!"
That first home game is tonight, against Sidney Crosby and the rival Pittsburgh Penguins, the perfect stage for a farewell tour to begin. And there are still records to chase: Ovechkin is one 20-goal season behind Gordie Howe, 10 combined regular-season and playoff goals behind Gretzky's 1,016, and 12 points shy of 1,700 for his career.
Capitals owner Ted Leonsis paid tribute Monday: "For more than two decades, Alex has given our fans everything they could ask for: the goals, the records, the physicality, the passion, and an unmatched desire to win. He brought Washington a Stanley Cup, and he helped create some of the most joyful and unifying moments this city has ever experienced in sports."
Ovechkin captained Washington to its first Stanley Cup in 2018. He signed a one-year deal this summer worth $4.25 million against the cap, with a $4.75 million bonus triggered at 10 games played. At 40 last season, he played all 82 games and led the team with 32 goals.
Enjoy every moment indeed. There will never be another one like him.
VIA NHL.com, ESPN and USA Today. Ovechkin and Leonsis quotes via the Washington Capitals.