Alex Ovechkin Announces 22nd NHL Season Will Be His Last
Washington Capitals captain Alex Ovechkin has announced that his 22nd NHL season will be his final one.
Harlingen Weslaco Brownsville McAllen, TX, October 5, 2026 — Washington Capitals captain Alex Ovechkin has announced that his upcoming 22nd National Hockey League season will be his last. The declaration marks a significant milestone for the storied career of the Russian-born hockey superstar.
Ovechkin, widely regarded as one of the greatest goal-scorers in NHL history, has been a cornerstone of the Washington Capitals franchise for nearly two decades. His anticipated final season will bring his illustrious career to a close, concluding a tenure that has seen him shatter numerous records and redefine offensive play in the league.
The specific date or context of Ovechkin’s announcement was not detailed in the provided information. Details regarding any farewell tours, commemorative events, or the exact timing within his 22nd season for his retirement were also not specified. As the captain, his leadership and on-ice presence have been pivotal for the Capitals, guiding the team through numerous successful campaigns.
Throughout his career, Ovechkin has achieved unparalleled success, most notably leading the Capitals to their first Stanley Cup championship in 2018. He holds the NHL record for most career goals by a left wing and is second all-time in total career goals. His pursuit of Wayne Gretzky’s all-time goal record has been a central narrative in recent NHL seasons.
The announcement is expected to generate considerable attention from fans, media, and fellow players as Ovechkin prepares for his final year of professional hockey. His impact on the sport extends beyond statistics, influencing a generation of players and energizing fan bases across the league.
Story summarized from the original created by Associated Press on www.valleycentral.com, see more information here.
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