Washington Capitals Playoffs: The future of Alex Ovechkin
The Washington Capitals take the ice tonight for Game 5 against the Boston Bruins.
The Bruins lead the series 3-1 and are looking to end it at Capital One Arena.
If the Capitals were to lose the series, there is one unknown heading into the offseason.
What is the fate of Alex Ovechkin?
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The Capitals captain is set to become a free agent this offseason. His 13-year $124 million contract will expire before the start of the 2021-22 NHL season.
Ovechkin, 35, is considered one of the best players in NHL history and the best ever to play for the nation’s capital.
The Russian hockey star was drafted 1st overall by Washington in 2004. Since coming into the league, Ovechkin put the team on his back.
His rookie year was delayed due to the labour lockout in 2004-2005 that canceled the NHL season. But when he debuted during the 2005-06 season, he already looked like the veteran of the team.
During Ovechkin’s rookie season he scored 106 points, 52 goals, 54 assists, 21 power play goals and five game-winning goals. After the season, Ovechkin won the Calder Memorial Trophy being recognized as the league’s best rookie.
16 years later, Ovechkin has dominated whenever he is on the ice.
In his regular season career, Ovechkin has played in 1,197 games, scored 730 goals (6th all-time), 1,320 points (27th all-time), 269 power play goals (2nd all-time) and 116 game-winning goals (4th all-time).
What’s next for the all-time great?
In an interview with 106.7 The Fan’s Grant & Danny in April, Ovechkin was asked about his contract.
“We’ll see,” Ovechkin said. “We’ll see.”
Capitals general manager Brian MacLellan also spoke on the negotiation talks back in December.
As much as Capitals’ fans may want to deny it, Ovechkin is coming towards the end of his career. A player can only take so much beating to the body. Even if your name is Alexander Ovechkin.
If Ovechkin leaves D.C. in free agency this offseason, it has been an incredible ride and one that will never be duplicated in Washington again.
If he decides to retire, the great 8 will certainly be a first-ballot hall of famer in 2024.
If Ovechkin comes back and plays for the nation’s capital, expect the same style and grit from the veteran that has been seen over his 16-year span in the league.
One thing is for sure. Whatever Ovechkin decides to do, it will be on his terms. There is no doubt that he loves playing for the Capitals. Many would not be surprised if the captain structured a deal with Washington this summer.
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Let’s us enjoy the journey he took us on almost two decades ago and wish him well with what comes next.