After two decades in Washington, the discussion around Alex Ovechkin has shifted from records and milestones to what the end might look like. He still scores, still leads, still carries the weight of a franchise, but the air around his future feels softer and more open than ever.
The uncertainty has brought curiosity rather than finality. His contract winds down, the roster changes around him, and he stands somewhere between the history he’s made and choices still waiting. That balance leads directly to the moment he finally addressed the questions himself.
Alex Ovechkin Clarifies His Future Plans as Contract Nears Expiry
Alex Ovechkin remains a vital part of Washington’s offense. He has 14 goals, 15 assists, and 29 points through 30 games this season. Most of his production has come in wins, and his role on the power play is still strong. He is in the final year of his five-year, $47,500,000 contract, carrying a $9,500,000 cap hit. When the deal ends, he will be an unrestricted free agent.
During the team’s West Coast road trip, Ovechkin spoke with Andrew Knoll of RG Media and gave a calm update. He did not commit to retirement or confirm a return. Instead, he said he would think about his future once the season ends. He also mentioned Dynamo Moscow as a possible path someday, whether for a season or maybe just a short appearance.
“Right now, I’m not thinking about it, to be honest with you. I’m focused on the season, I’m focused on the next game, and we’ll see what’s going to happen in the future,” Ovechkin told RG Media.
He also talked about how the team feels this year. The group looks connected, and he seems comfortable with how things are going.
“We try to help each other a lot, on the ice and off the ice, and the communication is there,” he said.
Conversations around his future have appeared more than once. In May, a Capitals email accidentally suggested that the upcoming season would be Ovechkin’s last. The organization later corrected it and said no decision had been made. Ovechkin then confirmed he would return for his 21st season, but left everything else open after that.
Later, comments from his wife drew attention when she mentioned the idea of him possibly playing in Russia again. Ovechkin defended her and said the remarks were taken out of context.
“She said, maybe we will come and play in Russia. But anything is possible,” he made it clear that nothing has been scheduled, promised, or decided.
“It’s pure nonsense that you guys are twisting and turning and putting Nastya (Ovi’s wife) in this position,” he reminded. For now, he plays, scores, and leads. The decision will come when he chooses it.