Ovechkin's Historic Return
Alex Ovechkin Inks Incentive-Laden One-Year Deal, Returns to Capitals Chasing New Milestones
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Alex Ovechkin is coming back for more. The 41-year-old Washington Capitals superstar has re-signed with the team for a 22nd NHL season, according to NBC News. The deal includes a $1 million base salary and $8 million in performance bonuses.
Ovechkin already made history this past April. He surpassed Wayne Gretzky's all-time goal record of 894, a mark many thought would never fall. He now sits at 929 career goals — all scored as a Capital.
A $9 Million Deal Structured Around Bonuses
The contract is built more on bonuses than base pay. Ovechkin's $1 million salary is modest by NHL standards. But the $8 million in bonuses gives him a path to earn significantly more, according to NBC Sports. The structure is common for veteran players late in their careers.
Ovechkin turned 41 in September. At that age, few players are still in the league at all. Signing a performance-bonus-heavy deal lets the Capitals manage risk while keeping their franchise icon on the ice.
How Ovechkin Broke the Most Sacred Record in Hockey
For decades, Gretzky's 894 goals seemed untouchable. Ovechkin chased it for years. In April 2025, he finally got there — and then kept going. He now has 929 goals, according to CTV News. That is 35 more than the previous all-time record.
Ovechkin has spent every one of his 21 NHL seasons in Washington. That kind of loyalty is rare in professional sports. Breaking the record with the same team he started with made the moment even bigger for Capitals fans.
What a 22nd Season Means for the Capitals
Washington is betting that Ovechkin still has something left. At 929 goals, every game he plays adds to an already historic total. The Capitals have built their identity around him for two decades. Bringing him back keeps that connection alive for at least one more year, according to NBC Washington.
The question now is how far he can push the record. If Ovechkin stays healthy, he could reach 950 or even approach 1,000 career goals. No player has ever come close to that number. The hockey world will be watching every game he plays this season.
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