NHL-All-time scoring leader Ovechkin says this season will be his last

Washington Capitals captain Alex Ovechkin announced on Monday that he will retire after the 2026-27 NHL season, marking the end of one of the sport's most remarkable careers. The 41-year-old Russian, who joined the league in 2005, holds numerous NHL records, including first in 40-goal seasons (14) and power-play goals (331). Ovechkin broke Wayne Gretzky's all-time goal-scoring record last year when he netted his 895th goal.

In a statement, Ovechkin said his family decided this summer that this will be his final year in the NHL. He expressed his love for the game but acknowledged it was the right decision. Ovechkin informed his teammates of his decision during a locker-room address, with the team's opening home game of the season set for the following Wednesday.

The former first overall draft pick for the Capitals, who holds the longest contract of any professional athlete in Washington DC, delivered the team their first Stanley Cup championship in 2018. Ovechkin's departure will mark the end of a compelling rivalry with Canada's Sidney Crosby, who was drafted one year after Ovechkin. Crosby expressed respect for Ovechkin and their friendship, despite the competitive nature of their rivalry.