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Alex Ovechkin opens up on retirement rumors after historic game against the Penguins


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Tyler Ball
April 12, 2026  (8:20 PM)
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Washington Capitals left wing Alex Ovechkin (8) covers Pittsburgh Penguins center Sidney Crosby (87) in the final minute during the third period at Capital One Arena.
Photo credit: Geoff Burke-Imagn Images

Tonight, Capitals superstar Alex Ovechkin spoke to the media and gave clarity on his rumored retirement after his final home game of the season in Washington.

The Washington Capitals hosted the Pittsburgh Penguins in what many expected to be Alex Ovechkin’s final home game in the NHL.
Throughout the game, Ovechkin shared several special moments including a legendary photo with Penguins’ stars Sidney Crosby, Evgeni Malkin, and Kris Letang.
At the end of the game, the Penguins stayed on the ice planning to shake Ovechkin’s hand and give him a proper send off but they were shaken off by the Capitals’ captain.
After the game, Ovechkin was asked about this moment and if him waving off Crosby and the Penguins is an indication he will be returning.

Alex Ovechkin discusses retirement decision after waving off Penguins’ tribute

In his post game press conference, Ovechkin thanked the Penguins and Crosby for their thoughtful actions but admitted he has not decided on retirement yet.
The lack of a decision is why he believed that moment with the Penguins was not needed.
I don’t decide yet. Thanks to them to wait out there.

While Ovi once again put off his retirement decision he confirmed he would be seeing both Crosby and Malkin after the game to reflect on their time in the league.
Said he was going to see Crosby and Malkin afterward, anyway.
While this statement from Ovechkin does not confirm his decision, it does leave the door open for him to return for one more season after the chants and pleas from the Capitals crowd.
The Capitals have one final regular season game in Columbus against the Blue Jackets that could determine their playoff fate and potentially the fate of Ovechkin’s career.
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Alex Ovechkin opens up on retirement rumors after historic game against the Penguins

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