FILE - Washington Capitals left wing Alex Ovechkin (8) skates in the third period of an NHL hockey game against the Columbus Blue Jackets on April 14, 2026, in Columbus, Ohio. (AP Photo/Sue Ogrocki, File)
Alex Ovechkin returning for a 22nd NHL season after re-signing with the Capitals
Jul 2, 2026 | 9:58 AM
-
Share on Facebook
-
Share on Bluesky
-
Share on X
- Copy Link
Alex Ovechkin is returning for a 22nd NHL season after re-signing with the Washington Capitals on Thursday.
“I’m back!” Ovechkin said.
The league’s career goal-scoring record holder inked a deal with a $1 million salary and bonuses worth an additional $8 million. He receives a $3.25 million signing bonus and makes the additional $4.75 million if he plays 10 games, but the contract structure allows him to count just $4.25 million against the cap. Ovechkin turns 41 in September.
Ovechkin has 929 goals after scoring 32 last season. The Russian superstar passed Wayne Gretzky’s mark of 894 goals in April 2025, completing the so-called “GR8 Chase” that captivated hockey.
