Evgeni Malkin predicts that Alex Ovechkin will return for the 2026-27 NHL season despite retirement rumors. Ovechkin plans to decide on his future after the current season, but Malkin believes he is still motivated to play.
Geoff Burke-Imagn Images
Evgeni Malkin and the Pittsburgh Penguins faced Alex Ovechkin and the Washington Capitals on Sunday afternoon. With retirement rumors swirling, it might have been Ovechkinâs last home game in Washington. However, does Malkin believe the Washington forward will retire from the NHL after the season is over?
The Penguins forward believes Ovechkin will be back for the 2026-27 NHL season, the player told reporters. Malkin said Ovechkin will be âback next year for sureâ because he is âstill hungry.â As of now, the 40-year-old Washington forward plans to make his retirement decision following the season, but his close friend believes he wonât be done yet.
Ovechkin is the best goal scorer in NHL history, and he is still peforming at a high level. The Capitals star has 32 goals, 31 assists, and 63 points in his 21st NHL season. While Ovechkin isnât performing at a 50-goal-per-season level, he still provides much-needed offensive production for Washington.
Since Ovechkinâs contract expires at the conclusion of the 2025-26 NHL season, he will need to sign a new one with the Capitals if he continues playing in the NHL. The end of this season has long been viewed as a potential retirement point for Ovechkin, since his contract is up.
The 40-year-old forward has previously expressed a desire to retire in Russia and potentially play a final season with Dynamo Moscow. If Ovehckin retires from the NHL, it wouldnât be shocking to see him play in Russia this year. However, the Capitals would love to have him back in the organization for one more campaign.
After all, it is hard to replace Ovechkinâs offensive production. Malkin believes Washington wonât have to worry and that Ovechkin will be back for at least one more season.
Read More: Alex Ovechkin Drops Major Update on NHL Retirement Plans
Related Headlines
Evgeni Malkin stated that he believes Alex Ovechkin will return for the 2026-27 NHL season and will not retire after this season.
In his 21st NHL season, Alex Ovechkin has recorded 32 goals, 31 assists, and 63 points.
Alex Ovechkin plans to make his retirement decision following the conclusion of the current NHL season.
LIV Golf's future appears uncertain as reports suggest Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund may withdraw funding after investing $5 billion. Despite assurances for the 2026 season, the tour faces challenges from low ratings and strong competition from the PGA Tour.
Mike Trout's 446-foot HR joins him with Aaron Judge in Yankee Stadium lore.
Detroit Tigers projected to take a risk on a 6'3" prep bat in the MLB draft.
Arshdeep Singh makes history as the first PBKS bowler to reach 100 IPL wickets!
California's top high school football prospects are on the move this weekend.
Viktor Hovland shines with a 64 at RBC Heritage, Gotterup scores 70.
See every story in Sports â including breaking news and analysis.