Alex Ovechkin told his Washington Capitals teammates that this will be his final season in the NHL.
In a video posted by the team on social media, Ovechkin said it was important to his family to let his fellow players know first.
"It's sad, but it is what it is," Ovechkin said in his locker room address. "It's hard, but let's enjoy it and let's do some special things this year."
Alex Ovechkin announced to his teammates this morning that this season will be his final in the NHL https://t.co/wnnnkrIl5U
— Washington Capitals (@Capitals) October 5, 2026
Ovechkin signed a one-year contract and is playing at age 41 after breaking Wayne Gretzky's career goal-scoring record in April 2025.
"We have an unbelievable team this year," Ovechkin said. "Let's make the playoffs, let's have fun and enjoy the moment because times fly."
Ovechkin entered his 22nd season with 929 goals.