Alex Ovechkin returning to the Capitals on a one-year deal

One of the biggest storylines heading into this NHL offseason is whether the Washington Capitals would be bringing back league all-time goal scorer and the best player in franchise history, Alex Ovechkin. They didn't have to wait long.

Washington announced on Thursday that the man who has scored 928 career goals is returning to the team for his 22nd season on a one-year contract worth $4.25 million, with the potential to hit $8 million if Ovechkin plays in more than 10 games in a games-played bonus.

“I’m back!” Ovechkin said in a statement. “Thank you to everyone for giving me and my family the time to make this decision. I’m healthy. I love playing hockey and competing to win. I’m excited to come back and join my teammates so we can fight for a playoff spot and have a chance to win. See you in September, DC!”

The 40-year-old had not previously committed to play in the 2026-27 season because he wanted to gauge his health and see what the Capitals did in the offseason after missing the playoffs this past season. But the team has improved its roster, and they wanted the legend to return.

Washington has already had a busy offseason. 

The team has acquired St. Louis Blues star winger Jordan Kyrou and Buffalo Sabres winger Alex Tuch, who would have been the top forward available in free agency. Also, the Capitals have signed Boone Jenner, Jonny Brodzinski and defensemen Justin Holl and Vincent Desharnais. 

During the 2025-26 NHL campaign, Ovechkin led the Capitals in goals (32) and points (64). He's the first and only player NHL history to win a Stanley Cup, a Conn Smythe, a Calder, an Art Ross, a Hart, a Ted Lindsay and a Maurice Richard Trophy

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