Gretzky Believes Crosby Will Play Beyond Ovechkin's Final Season
Wayne Gretzky said he expected Alex Ovechkin to make 2026-27 his final NHL season and does not think Sidney Crosby will retire at the same time. Gretzky told The Athletic that Crosby, 39, appears to have at least another year left and still plays at a high level. He also recalled keeping his own 1999 retirement quiet, even from his father.
Wayne Gretzky told The Athletic he anticipated Alex Ovechkin would choose 2026-27 as his last NHL campaign. Gretzky noted aging past 38 is difficult, citing Gordie Howe and Chris Chelios as rare exceptions. He said Sidney Crosby, also 39, still performs at an elite level and likely has another season left, allowing each star a separate farewell.
Ovechkin, 41, has spent his entire career with Washington, recording 929 goals and 1,688 points in 1,575 games. He broke Gretzky’s career goals mark in April 2025. Crosby and Ovechkin were set to meet in Washington’s home opener.
The announcements could shape how fans and markets experience the final chapter of two iconic careers. Washington supporters may see heightened demand for Ovechkin’s road games and home dates, while Pittsburgh followers could prepare for Crosby’s eventual farewell. The league and broadcasters may benefit from increased attention as a generational era closes. For younger players and teams, the transition may create openings and shift rivalries, though the immediate impact remains largely sentimental and commercial rather than competitive.