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2w ago

Ovechkin Says He’s ‘Pretty Sure’ Columbus Wasn’t His Last Game

Washington awaits his decision to guide offseason planning.

Image
Apr 11, 2026; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Washington Capitals left wing Alex Ovechkin (8) shoots the puck against the Pittsburgh Penguins during the second period at PPG Paints Arena. Mandatory Credit: Philip G. Pavely-Imagn Images
Apr 14, 2026; Columbus, Ohio, USA; Washington Capitals left wing Alex Ovechkin (8) waits for the face-off against the Columbus Blue Jackets during the third period at Nationwide Arena. Mandatory Credit: Russell LaBounty-Imagn Images
Apr 14, 2026; Elmont, New York, USA; Carolina Hurricanes left wing Mark Jankowski (77) celebrates his goal against the New York Islanders during the third period at UBS Arena. Mandatory Credit: Dennis Schneidler-Imagn Images

Overview

  • At Thursday’s locker cleanout, the 40-year-old said he is “pretty sure” the season finale was not his last NHL game, though he has not made a final decision.
  • He said he will consult his family and Capitals leadership, including coach Spencer Carbery and top hockey executives Chris Patrick and Brian MacLellan, before choosing his path.
  • His five-year contract has expired and he will be an unrestricted free agent on July 1, and he joked he’d like a two-year offer while adding he would probably not play for another NHL team.
  • The season ended Tuesday with a 2-1 win in Columbus, where he assisted on the go-ahead goal as visiting fans chanted “One more year,” after he became one of the few 40-plus players to skate in all 82 games.
  • ESPN reported the Capitals would prefer an answer before the June 26 draft so they can shape roster moves around the NHL’s all-time regular-season goals leader.