Washington Capitals forward Alex Ovechkin has signed a one-year contract extension worth $4.25 million against the salary cap, delaying his potential retirement and returning for his 22nd NHL season.
The deal, announced on Thursday, July 2, 2026, includes a $1 million base salary, a $3.25 million signing bonus, and an additional $4.75 million performance bonus triggered when he plays his 10th game of the season.
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His maximum total potential payout is $9 million.
Ovechkin, who turns 41 in September, holds the NHL record with 929 goals after surpassing Wayne Gretzky's mark in 2024-25.
He recorded 32 goals last season despite the team's power play ranking 25th in the league.
By returning, Ovechkin becomes the city's longest-tenured athlete and joins an elite group of players who have spent 22 seasons with a single franchise.
The Capitals made aggressive offseason moves, acquiring top talents Jordan Kyrou and Alex Tuch.
"I'm back!" Ovechkin said in a release.
"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!"
Ovechkin had remained noncommittal about his future during the final year of his previous five-year contract. He waved off the Pittsburgh Penguins after their final regular-season matchup.
