Alex Ovechkin shares he doesn't plan on retiring a Washington Capital

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Josh Tupper
May 25, 2024 (2:01 PM)

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Alexander Ovechkin, the captain of the Washington Capitals and a future Hall of Famer, has two years left until he becomes an unrestricted free agent, and many people are interested in what will happen to him when his contract expires.

It's possible that Ovechkin will decide to stay with the National Hockey League team he has always known by signing a new contract with them. However, is it possible for the nine-time Rocket Richard Trophy winner to return to Russia? That seems to have a high probability of occurring.

Alexander Ovechkin has stated that he will conclude his professional career in Russia and play for Dynamo Moscow, the team he played for for five seasons, according to KHL coach Vladimir Fedosov.

"He said himself that he would finish his career in Dynamo... the white-and-blue fans can definitely sleep easy. If Alexander's health is good, he will be able to play until the age of 45," Fedosov said.

When his career is done, 38-year-old Alex Ovechkin will be remembered as the greatest goal scorer in National Hockey League history. The native of Moscow needs 42 goals to overtake Wayne Gretzky as the National Hockey League's all-time top goal scorer, and 41 goals to tie the record. Ovechkin has 1,550 points (853 goals, 697 assists) in 1,426 career games.

Ovechkin has experience playing for Dynamo Moscow, as was previously noted. He played four years in the Russian Superleague (now the KHL) with Dynamo Moscow before joining the NHL in 2005�06. During the NHL lockout in 2012�13, he made a comeback to the team and played in 31 games, scoring 40 points and scoring 19 goals.

Even if a lot may happen between now and 2026, when Alexander Ovechkin becomes a free agent without restrictions, it appears likely that he will end his career in Russia with his previous team. To Ovechkin, returning to Dynamo Moscow to conclude his career will represent a complete circle and hold immense significance.

As the years pass, Ovechkin is getting closer to breaking the NHL's all-time goal scoring mark, which is what fans in North America are currently hoping he will do before he leaves for home.

Former Dynamo Coach: Ovechkin Said He Plans To Finish Out Hockey Career In Russia