Alex Ovechkin, the Washington Capitals’ iconic captain, continues to impress his teammates with his remarkable skills and dedication at age 40, even as questions loom about whether this season will be his last in the NHL. His unwavering performance amid an expiring contract has teammates in awe, with Tom Wilson calling him “a machine” for his ability to maintain high levels of play.
Last season, Ovechkin cemented his legacy by surpassing Wayne Gretzky’s all-time goal record, netting his 895th goal in April. He achieved this despite a broken fibula that sidelined him for 16 games, finishing with 44 goals in 65 games. This historic pursuit fueled the Capitals, who saw a 20-point improvement in their record and advanced to the second round of the playoffs for the first time since their 2018 Stanley Cup victory. The goal chase provided a rallying point for the team during challenging periods, energizing both players and fans.
The speculation about Ovechkin’s future arises from his contract status and age, as he is in the final year of his deal. He has remained non-committal, stating he takes it “day by day” and focuses on enjoying the game. General manager Chris Patrick and coach Spencer Carbery are respecting his space, with Patrick noting that Ovechkin will decide when he’s ready, and the organization supports whatever choice he makes. This approach allows Ovechkin to evaluate his physical and mental readiness without pressure.
Ovechkin’s presence is a key asset for the Capitals, who have strategically built a contender around him to avoid a rebuild. Moves like acquiring Pierre-Luc Dubois and Jakob Chychrun have kept the team competitive, which could influence Ovechkin to continue playing. Teammates value the culture he fosters, with Wilson emphasizing that the Capitals now set a high standard for opponents. The team’s resurgence, including a Metropolitan Division title last season, provides a supportive environment for his decision.
Personal milestones provide additional motivation for Ovechkin. He is nearing 900 career goals and could break Gordie Howe’s record for most goals by a 40-year-old. He is also approaching 1,500 games played, a milestone reached by only 22 players in NHL history. Coach Carbery believes Ovechkin remains hungry to achieve these targets and contribute to team success, noting that his love for the game drives his persistence. These goals add layers to his potential reasons for extending his career.
Carbery maintains regular communication with Ovechkin, checking on his well-being and leveraging his leadership as captain. The coach observes that Ovechkin’s bond with teammates and joy in competing are central to his longevity. This daily engagement helps assess his readiness for the grueling season ahead, with Carbery avoiding direct questions about retirement to keep the focus on the present. The supportive dynamic underscores the team’s commitment to his autonomy.
If this proves to be Ovechkin’s final year, it may follow a discreet path similar to Gretzky’s retirement, without a formal tour. Teammates like John Carlson, who has played alongside him since 2009, cherish the experience but avoid premature nostalgia, focusing instead on current games and shared moments. Carlson described it as “a hell of a ride” and emphasized appreciating the special times without dwelling on the unknown. This mindset helps maintain team cohesion and performance.
In conclusion, the Capitals are committed to supporting Ovechkin’s decision, whether he retires or continues. His legacy is secure, and the team hopes he plays on, but ultimately, his enjoyment and performance will guide the outcome. For now, fans and players alike are relishing every opportunity to watch the legendary forward in action, savoring each game as a potential chapter in his storied career.