Alex Ovechkin continues to add to his legendary career after breaking Wayne Gretzky’s seemingly untouchable all-time goals record, but questions about his future persist. The Washington Capitals captain recently became the first player in NHL history to reach 900 career goals.

One current star recently shared his honest perspective on watching Ovechkin’s remarkable journey and whether the Russian legend should keep playing.

What Did Matthew Tkachuk Say About Ovechkin?

Matthew Tkachuk appeared on the latest episode of the “Wingmen” podcast alongside his brother Brady. The Florida Panthers forward discussed how both Ovechkin and Sidney Crosby remain in the top 10 for all-time NHL points despite still being active in the league.

“Sidney Crosby and Alex Ovechkin, again, this is a great stat from Quaker Statman. Both are in the top 10 all-time in points in the NHL, and they still have a lot of room,” Tkachuk said. “I think they still have as many years left as they want to play.”

This comment highlighted how both legends continue performing at elite levels well into their late 30s. However, Tkachuk’s focus quickly shifted specifically to Ovechkin and the bittersweet nature of watching his potential final seasons.

“I know we talked about him a little bit in either the last part or the one before, but like, what he’s doing is insane,” Tkachuk explained. “And like, the only thing that kind of makes me sad is like, you see these jersey swaps. It’s like, man, I hope this isn’t the last year.”

The jersey swaps Tkachuk referenced have become increasingly common as players recognize they might not get another chance to exchange sweaters with the Russian legend. This tradition typically signals that peers believe retirement could be imminent.

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However, Tkachuk made his feelings clear about wanting Ovechkin to continue playing. “I don’t know. I mean, he’s obviously earned the right to do whatever the hell he wants, but like, he’s playing so good. Like, damn, I hope he continues to play in the NHL,” the Panthers forward stated.

Tkachuk’s admiration for Ovechkin goes beyond just respecting his current performance. The Florida star revealed the Capitals’ captain holds special significance in his hockey fandom. “He’s still like my favorite memory,” Tkachuk said, trailing off as if recalling specific moments that cemented Ovechkin as one of his childhood heroes.

How Does the New Generation View These Legends?

These comments reflect a sentiment shared throughout the hockey world. Ovechkin’s generation defined an era of NHL dominance that today’s stars grew up idolizing. Players like the Tkachuk brothers watched Crosby and Ovechkin battle for supremacy during the late 2000s and 2010s.

Now those same players share the ice with their childhood heroes while simultaneously watching them approach retirement. The realization that legends don’t play forever has become increasingly apparent even after Ovechkin already accomplished his historic goal.

Ovechkin surpassed Gretzky’s mark of 894 goals in April 2025 and has since added to his total. With 907 career goals and counting, he’s rewritten the record books. Whether he continues playing for several more seasons remains one of hockey’s biggest questions.

For Tkachuk and countless other fans, the answer is simple. They want Ovechkin to keep playing as long as his body allows, regardless of how many more milestones he reaches.