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Alex Ovechkin hints at possible retirement after odd pre-game scene


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Tyler Ball
April 8, 2026  (8:56 PM)
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Washington Capitals left wing Alex Ovechkin (8) skates during the warmup before a game against the Toronto Maple Leafs at Scotiabank Arena.
Photo credit: Nick Turchiaro-Imagn Images

Tonight, Alex Ovechkin continued to fuel retirement rumors after an odd pre-game routine before the Capitals’ game in Toronto.

The Washington Capitals are likely to miss the Stanley Cup Playoffs ending their season early.
At the end of the season, Alex Ovechkin will be without an NHL contract and the lack of an extension has suggested that Ovechkin will retire and return back home to Russia after the season.
Before tonight’s game in Toronto, Ovechkin went through a strange pre-game warmup that could confirm his plans to retire.

Alex Ovechkin sparks retirement rumors after actions in Toronto

According to reports from Toronto, Ovechkin during warmups took two pucks and gave them to a trainer to keep off to the side.
Alex Ovechkin scoops up two pucks from warmups in Toronto and gives them to a trainer for safe keeping.
This is often done by a player on a special occasion like first game or potentially last game in a city.
While it is unconfirmed whether or not Ovechkin will retire this seems to be a sign that he is at least considering it.
Ovechkin has done everything there is to do in the NHL after breaking the all-time goals record last season which is why he is likely considering retirement.
The Capitals play their final home game against the Sidney Crosby and the Pittsburgh Penguins on April 12th.
This game in Washington against his long time rival will likely serve as a better sign of whether or not Ovechkin is hanging up his skates.
Until then, all fans can do is appreciate every game left for the Capitals this season in case it is in fact Ovechkin’s final year.
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Alex Ovechkin hints at possible retirement after odd pre-game scene

Do you think Alex Ovechkin will retire after the 2025-26 season?

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