Alex Ovechkin to retire at end of 2026-27 NHL season after 22 years
Key Points:
- Alex Ovechkin, the NHL’s all-time leading goal-scorer and Washington Capitals legend, announced he will retire at the end of the 2026-27 season, marking his 22nd year in the league.
- The 41-year-old made the announcement on the 21st anniversary of his NHL debut, expressing a desire to enjoy his final season and make it special with his teammates.
- Ovechkin holds numerous records, including surpassing Wayne Gretzky’s goals record in April 2025, with 929 regular-season goals and 77 playoff goals, placing him among the all-time leaders.
- He led the Capitals to their first and only Stanley Cup win in the 2017-18 season and plans to cherish his remaining time with family, fans, and teammates.
- Ovechkin has faced scrutiny for his support of Russian President Vladimir Putin, recently appearing in a Putin campaign video, but he has expressed a hope for peace and avoided taking a political stance on the Ukraine conflict.