Earlier on Thursday, the Washington Capitals accidentally sent an email saying that next season would be Alex Ovechkin’s final year in the NHL. This caused a lot of buzz among fans and the hockey community. However, the team quickly corrected the mistake and said no decision has been made yet about Ovechkin’s future after the 2025-26 season.
The Email That Caused Confusion
The email was sent to Capitals season ticket holders and included the phrase, “October – the start of Capitals hockey and Alex Ovechkin’s FINAL NHL SEASON.” The team later explained this was an error by someone in the corporate sales department. They confirmed the information in the email was inaccurate and reassured fans that Ovechkin’s plans are still undecided.
Ovechkin’s Impressive Career and Upcoming Milestones
Next season will mark Ovechkin’s 21st year playing in the NHL, as well as the final year of his current five-year contract signed in 2021. He is close to reaching two huge career milestones: playing 1,500 NHL games and scoring 900 goals. Recently, Ovechkin made history by breaking Wayne Gretzky’s all-time regular-season goal record with his 895th goal.
Ovechkin finished the current season with 44 goals and 73 points, helping lead the Capitals to win the Eastern Conference title during the regular season for the third time in the past ten years. Though the Capitals lost in the second round of the playoffs to the Carolina Hurricanes, Ovechkin’s performance was a major highlight.
What Could Happen After Ovechkin’s NHL Career?
While the Capitals have not announced any decision about Ovechkin’s future, there are rumors that he might continue playing hockey outside the NHL. Some suggest he could join Russia’s KHL team, Dynamo Moscow. Ovechkin has a strong connection to Dynamo, having played there before starting his NHL career and even during the 2012-13 NHL lockout. Since 2019-20, he has also served as a senior advisor for the club.
The Washington Capitals’ email about Alex Ovechkin’s final NHL season was a mistake that caused unnecessary confusion. Ovechkin is still an active player with no confirmed plans to retire after next season. He continues to chase remarkable career records and could potentially play elsewhere if he decides to leave the NHL. For now, fans can enjoy watching one of hockey’s greatest players continue his amazing journey on the ice.
