sports
Alex Ovechkin Signs One-Year Contract to Return for 22nd Season With Capitals
Alex Ovechkin signed a one-year deal with the Washington Capitals on July 2, 2026, for his 22nd NHL season. The incentive-laden contract carries a $4.25 million average annual value and could reach $9 million if performance bonuses are met.
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Alex Ovechkin signed a one-year contract with the Washington Capitals on July 2, 2026, committing to his 22nd NHL season. The agreement carries an average annual value of $4.25 million. It includes a $1 million base salary and a $3.25 million signing bonus.
Ovechkin would earn an additional $4.75 million if he plays at least 10 games, raising his total compensation for the season to $9 million. Ovechkin, who turns 41 on September 17, led the Capitals to the Stanley Cup in 2018. He holds the NHL record for career goals with 929 and passed Wayne Gretzky for the regular-season mark on April 6, 2025.
Last season he played all 82 games and recorded 32 goals along with 32 assists. "Thank you to everyone for giving me and my family the time to make this decision," Ovechkin said in a statement. "I love playing hockey and competing to win.
Ovechkin made his NHL debut on October 5, 2005, against the Columbus Blue Jackets and scored his first two goals in that game. He holds the league records for power-play goals with 331 and game-winning goals with 141. He has scored 30 or more goals in a season 20 times.
Ovechkin said after completing the deal.
