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.
Evgeni Malkin Makes Bold Prediction on Alex Ovechkinâs NHL Future
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.
What did Evgeni Malkin say about Alex Ovechkin's retirement plans?
Evgeni Malkin stated that he believes Alex Ovechkin will return for the 2026-27 NHL season and will not retire after this season.
How is Alex Ovechkin performing in his current NHL season?
In his 21st NHL season, Alex Ovechkin has recorded 32 goals, 31 assists, and 63 points.
When will Alex Ovechkin announce his retirement decision?
Alex Ovechkin plans to make his retirement decision following the conclusion of the current NHL season.
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