In the 2024–25 season, superstar Alex Ovechkin broke Wayne Gretzky’s record by scoring his 895th goal, becoming the all-time leading scorer in NHL history. His remarkable stature as an athlete, not only as a player for the Washington Capitals, makes his future a constant subject of intrigue.
The situation surrounding the Caps and their franchise icon is that Ovechkin is entering the final year of his five-year contract, signed in 2021 and running through 2026, worth $47.5 million with a $9.5 million annual cap hit. Uncertainty is beginning to surface.
Just days ago, a controversial situation unfolded when an internal communication was mistakenly leaked, suggesting the team was marketing season tickets for what would be Ovechkin’s final year. The rumor was quickly denied, but it revealed cracks within the organization, enough that players are now speaking out.
Will Ovechkin remain with the Caps?
For now, it’s confirmed that Ovechkin will suit up for the Washington franchise next season. Still, Capitals center Dylan Strome shared his thoughts on his linemate’s future. “Look, we don’t know if this will be his last year,” he told NHL.com at the 11th Annual Smilezone Celebrity Golf Tournament at Lionhead Golf Club.
NHL legend Alex Ovechkin #8 of the Washington Capitals celebrates after scoring a goal against the Montreal Canadiens during the first period in Game One of the First Round of the 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs.
“You saw what he said a couple of days ago—it’s nonsense for people to say this is his final year,” Strome continued. “To be on his line the majority of my three seasons in Washington… it’s been an honor to play with him and still is. Playing alongside him has had a positive impact on my career.
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After breaking Wayne Gretzky’s goal record last season, Alex Ovechkin makes major admission on next milestone in line with Capitals
What does Ovechkin want to do?
In recent statements, Ovechkin made it clear that no contract talks are currently underway and that he’s taking things day by day. “A year will pass, we’ll think, we’ll wait, we’ll see,” the Capitals’ superstar said a few days ago. In the meantime, the legendary Russian forward is just three goals away from reaching the 900-goal milestone in regular season play.
