The future of Alex Ovechkin remains one of the biggest storylines around the Washington Capitals this NHL season, but the veteran star has made one thing clear. His retirement decision will not come quickly, and it will not be made alone.

Ovechkin’s contract is set to expire this season, and he will have to sign an extension if he wants to continue his playing career. But if not, there will be a decision to make.

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Speaking on Monumental Sports Network, Ovechkin said he has yet to decide whether this will be his final NHL season. The 40-year-old confirmed he will wait until the summer before making a call.

MORE: Alex Ovechkin’s 34th hat trick seals 4th place in NHL record books

“Not yet,” Ovechkin said about his retirement plans. We’re going to make a decision in the summer. I have to talk to my family, with Ted, with KP, Mac, and we have to make a decision in the summer.”

So the people who are going to have an influence on Ovechkin’s retirement plans are his wife, Anastasia Shubskaya, his other family members, Capitals’ majority owner Ted Leonsis, General Manager Chris Patrick, and President of Hockey Operations Brian MacLellan.

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Still, one factor stands above the rest. Ovechkin stressed that health will be the most important element in deciding his future. He acknowledged the physical toll of the game and the need to think beyond his playing days. Turning 41 in September, he wants to avoid long-term damage.

“Health-wise, I’m going to be 41 years old in September, so you just have to be smart about it.” Ovechkin said.

Earlier in October 2025, Ovechkin had talked about his health being a primary factor.

“Most important thing is health,” Ovechkin said last year. “I don’t want to play hockey and then, like, when I’m retired, like, I don’t want — like, I can’t play soccer with my kids, or I can’t skate with them.”

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So, that’s likely going to have a big say in his plans.

Alex Ovechkin has reached another 30th goal mark

Despite the uncertainty, Ovechkin’s performance has not dropped. He has once again passed the 30-goal mark this season, continuing a record-setting career. So far, he has 61 points, including 31 goals in 78 games.

Ovechkin has already broken the NHL’s all-time goals record held by Wayne Gretzky last April and currently has 928 regular-season goals. Recently, he has also crossed the 1,000 combined goals milestone, further strengthening his legacy.

Meanwhile, Washington continues to rely heavily on his production as they battle for a playoff spot. While younger players have contributed, Ovechkin remains the driving force behind the offense.

So, the decision ahead carries major implications for both player and franchise.