Alex Ovechkin Confirms Return for 21st NHL Season at 40

The Washington Capitals concluded the 2024-25 NHL season as the top team in the Eastern Conference but were eliminated by the Carolina Hurricanes in five games during the second round of the Stanley Cup Playoffs. Team captain Alex Ovechkin, who recently became the NHL's all-time goal-scoring leader, confirmed he will return for the 2025-26 season, despite joking about the challenges of making the roster at age 40. Capitals head coach Spencer Carbery expressed confidence in Ovechkin's continued high-level performance, highlighting his leadership and remarkable comeback after a broken leg. Longtime rival Sidney Crosby also expects Ovechkin to keep playing, praising his ability to perform at an elite level despite his age and noting that retirement is unlikely as long as Ovechkin feels physically capable. Ovechkin finished the season with 44 goals and 73 points in 65 games, demonstrating resilience and sustained excellence. Both teammates and competitors anticipate Ovechkin will strive to help the Capitals contend for the Stanley Cup in the coming season.