ARLINGTON, Va. — Washington Capitals superstar Alex Ovechkin jokingly suggested he wants a two-year contract extension from the team.
While he was likely kidding, the NHL’s all-time leading goal scorer’s future remains uncertain following the conclusion of his 21st professional season on Tuesday. Recent games felt like potential farewell moments to fans and even rival players, though Ovechkin hasn’t ruled out a comeback.
With his current deal now expired, the veteran forward met with media Thursday for an extended interview where he discussed upcoming conversations with head coach Spencer Carbery and general manager Chris Patrick. When reporters asked what he hoped to hear from Patrick regarding the franchise’s direction, Ovechkin responded with humor.
“Two more years,” he said, prompting laughter. “This is the contract. Sign it.”
Such a lengthy agreement would shock most observers given Ovechkin’s age of 40. The more pressing question centers on whether he’ll continue his NHL career at all. The Russian captain indicated his choice will hinge on his physical condition, family circumstances, and Washington’s competitive prospects.
Washington concluded their campaign with a victory over Columbus on Tuesday, finishing with 95 points. While that total would have topped the Pacific Division, it left them three points shy of an Eastern Conference playoff berth. Promising young talents like Ryan Leonard and Cole Hutson have shown development for the organization, leaving the team in reasonable shape regardless of Ovechkin’s decision.
Should he return, his salary negotiations would be fascinating after earning $9.5 million annually on his previous contract. This season, he led Washington with 32 goals while appearing in all 82 contests — impressive statistics for someone his age. However, his signature one-timer from the left wing wasn’t as dominant as in previous years, managing just five power-play goals on 86 attempts, and his defensive play showed signs of decline.
When asked about potentially joining another NHL franchise, Ovechkin noted his free agent status.
“I’m a free agent,” he stated.
Pressed further about playing elsewhere after spending his entire career in Washington, he responded: “Probably not, no.”
Speculation has surrounded a possible return to Russia, but Ovechkin emphasized he must first resolve his NHL situation.
“I’m pretty sure it’s not my last game — I hope it’s not my last game, against Columbus. I have to make a decision to see where we’re at — the team, family,” Ovechkin explained. “Obviously, family are going to support me, like my wife and kids. Kids are already asking, ‘Dad, are you staying or not?’”
His response to his children?
“I tell them, ‘We’ll see,’” he said. “They want me to come back because they love the city, they love the team, they love the boys.”
