Particle.news
Download on the App Store
3 ARTICLES
·
last wk.

Alex Ovechkin Confirms Return for 21st NHL Season at Age 40

After breaking Wayne Gretzky’s all-time goal record, Ovechkin aims to lead the Capitals in pursuit of another Stanley Cup.

May 10, 2025; Raleigh, North Carolina, USA; Washington Capitals left wing Alex Ovechkin (8) takes a shot against the Carolina Hurricanes during the second period in game three of the second round of the 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Lenovo Center. Mandatory Credit: James Guillory-Imagn Images/File Photo
Image

Overview

  • Ovechkin announced he will return for the 2025-26 season, his 21st NHL campaign, at age 40.
  • He overcame a broken leg this season to score 44 goals, ranking third in the league, and surpassed Wayne Gretzky’s career goal record with 897 goals.
  • The Capitals were eliminated in the second round of the playoffs by the Carolina Hurricanes, marking their 15th such exit in 16 postseason appearances under Ovechkin's captaincy.
  • Ovechkin plans to rest during the offseason before training with longtime trainer Pavel Burlachenko to prepare for the final year of his five-year, $47.5 million contract.
  • Looking ahead, Ovechkin expressed his desire to compete for another Stanley Cup and remains noncommittal about his career plans beyond the upcoming season.