According to a report released on June 25, the Washington Capitals are taking steps to free up part of their salary cap allocation in order to retain Alexander Ovechkin.
Journalist Elliott Friedman stated that the team is likely to take one or two additional measures to create space under the salary cap and ensure they can keep the star forward.
Ovechkin, who turned 40 this year, will complete his 21st season in the NHL with Washington during the 2025/26 campaign—marking the final year of his current contract. The forward has been a cornerstone of the team since his debut in the league.
Brian McLellan, president of hockey operations for the Capitals, emphasized Ovechkin’s significant impact on the team earlier this season. The team confirmed that their agreement with Ovechkin runs through the end of the 2025/26 season. In a recent statement, Ovechkin indicated he would decide on his career future in the summer.
Additionally, Ovechkin has been pursuing academic interests and recently earned a PhD in pedagogical sciences, analyzing differences in youth athlete training between Russia and North America.
