Ovechkin’s uncertain future
A recent podcast noted Alex Ovechkin saying 'I hope it's not my last game,' adding uncertainty about whether he will continue after this postseason. (Media podcast summary quoting Ovechkin; companion playoff coverage) (youtube.com).
Alex Ovechkin said after Washington’s season finale that he hopes it was not his last National Hockey League game, and one day later said he is “pretty sure” he will keep playing. (nhl.com) (upi.com) Ovechkin made the first comment Tuesday, April 15, after a 2-1 win over the Columbus Blue Jackets ended the Capitals’ regular season. He was more upbeat on breakup day Thursday, April 16, but said he still had not made a final decision. (nhl.com) (newsday.com) The 40-year-old just finished his 21st National Hockey League season and the last year of the five-year, $47.5 million contract he signed with Washington in 2021. That deal carries a $9.5 million annual cap hit and leaves him eligible for unrestricted free agency this summer. (puckpedia.com) (nhl.com) His choice lands at a turning point for the Capitals, who were eliminated from playoff contention on April 14 and missed the postseason for the second time in four years. Washington was 42-30-9 with 93 points when the league’s elimination story posted this week. (nhl.com 1) (nhl.com 2) The question is bigger than one roster move because Ovechkin is no longer chasing Wayne Gretzky’s record; he already owns the league career goals mark. The Athletic reported Thursday that he sits at 929 career goals, and the International Ice Hockey Federation said last month he also reached 1,000 combined goals across National Hockey League and international club and national-team play. (nytimes.com) (iihf.com) Ovechkin said Thursday that health, family and Washington’s chance to contend for another Stanley Cup will shape his decision. National Hockey League.com reported that his sons, Sergei, 7, and Ilya, 5, have been asking whether he is staying. (newsday.com) (nhl.com) Washington has signaled it will give him time. National Hockey League.com reported this week that the Capitals will support Ovechkin while he weighs retirement or a return for a 22nd season. (nhl.com) For now, the clearest answer is that Ovechkin has not closed the door. After sounding unsure on Tuesday, he sounded closer to coming back on Thursday. (nhl.com) (upi.com)
