Capitals Ovechkin Returning Hockey

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.

 Sue Ogrocki - AP

ARLINGTON, Va. (AP) — Alex Ovechkin is returning for a 22nd NHL season after re-signing with the Washington Capitals on Thursday.

The league’s career goal-scoring record holder inked a deal with a $1 million salary and bonuses worth an additional $8 million. Ovechkin turns 41 in September.

Ovechkin has 929 goals after scoring 32 last season. The Russian superstar broke Wayne Gretzky’s mark of 894 goals in April 2025.

He had said in recent months he was waiting until the offseason to decide whether to return or retire. Ovechkin in a news release sent out by the Capitals declared, “I’m back.”

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