Friedman: Ovechkin Weighed Two-Year Pact Before Choosing One-Year Farewell
Alex Ovechkin and the Capitals discussed a two-year contract before he signed a one-year deal, according to Elliotte Friedman. Ovechkin has told teammates that this will be his final NHL season. Friedman suggested Ovechkin's reduced role and ice time may have contributed to his decision.
Elliotte Friedman said on 32 Thoughts that Washington and Ovechkin explored a two-year agreement before he accepted a one-season contract. The deal includes a $1 million base salary, a $3.25 million signing bonus, and as much as $4.75 million in performance bonuses. Ovechkin informed teammates on Oct. 5 that this would be his last NHL campaign.
His early usage has declined: he averaged 13:28 across three games, with a career-low 12:46 versus Carolina. He logged 13:34 against Tampa Bay and 14:05 against Pittsburgh. Washington added Tuch and Kyrou after a low-scoring season, and Ovechkin has said he wants his final game to come with Dynamo Moscow.
Ovechkin’s planned farewell may shape how Capitals fans, teammates, and NHL viewers experience the season, turning games into milestones and increasing attention on his reduced role. It could also influence how teams manage aging stars and fan expectations around retirement tours. The impact may remain largely cultural and emotional, centered on Washington’s hockey community and followers of one of the league’s most recognizable players.