As the 2025-26 NHL season kicks off, Washington Capitals captain Alex Ovechkin is getting close to a big career milestone that goes beyond just playing hockey: he’s in the last year of his contract and will be an unrestricted free agent next summer. The 40-year-old winger hasn’t started discussing with Capitals general manager Chris Patrick or the front office about what’s next for him, noting that there’s still plenty of time for those talks.

This laid-back vibe from both the player and the organization sets the stage for a season that’s more about enjoying the game and less about contract stress, highlighting the core elements that have shaped his legendary career. According to the official NHL website, when asked about his future plans and all the rumors surrounding it, Ovechkin offered a straightforward but insightful philosophy.

“I’m just going to enjoy it. I’m going to enjoy the season, and we’ll see what’s going to happen,” the Russian NHL star mentioned. General Manager Chris Patrick shared similar thoughts, saying that the organization is really giving Ovechkin the space he needs. They want him to have a season that goes just the way he envisions it.

“If he wants to talk, we’ll talk. If not, we’ll figure it out later,” Patrick said, noting that he’s just enjoying the chance to see the 40-year-old superstar play every night. This shared understanding shows a career filled with significant accomplishments that’s now stepping into a time of careful reflection.

Ovechkin is all about the here and now, driven by his lasting passion for hockey. He’s been pretty open about the struggles of keeping his body in shape at 40, but he balances that out with a ton of enthusiasm. “I still love coming here every day, have fun, talk to the boys, talk to the coaches, trainers. I’m just enjoying everything,” Ovechkin shared. Still, his teammates find inspiration in how he carries himself during these moments.

The Capitals want more Alex Ovechkin

There’s plenty to get excited about this season, especially with Alex Ovechkin just three goals shy of making NHL history by hitting 900 goals. His Capitals teammates always mention the vibe he brings to the table. “Right when he walks into the rink every day, he’s smiling, he’s cracking jokes, he’s laughing. He just loves being around the game, and obviously he still plays at a real high-end level. We’ll welcome him with open arms for as long as he wants,”  said Washington forward Connor McMichael.

Ovechkin shows up at the rink every day with a big smile and a laugh, and his love for the game is as strong as ever, even after two decades in the league. His joy, mixed with that unstoppable drive, is what keeps him moving ahead, even when he’s facing the unknowns of his career path.

Tom Wilson, a longtime teammate of the Capitals and fellow forward, shared some similar thoughts about Ovechkin, saying, “He’s superhuman in a way and just keeps defying odds. He’s truly just achieved greatness all the time. There’s other superstars, you watch documentaries and they get tired of it and they need a break mentally from it, [but] not him. He’s just a great hockey player through and through, and he loves being a part of the team and leading the way.”

Right now, let’s just take a breather and let the future hold off for a bit. Alex Ovechkin isn’t weighed down by free agency; instead, he’s enjoying his passion for the game. He’s taking in every shift, every goal, and every moment of his 21st season, leaving the future to unfold when it’s meant to.