Alex Ovechkin signs one-year deal to return for 22nd season

Alex Ovechkin, the greatest goal-scorer in NHL history, will return for a 22nd season after signing a one-year contract with the Washington Capitals on Thursday. The 40-year-old captain, who will turn 41 in September, ended speculation about his future by committing to another campaign with the only NHL franchise he has ever played for.

The contract is valued at $4.25 million against the salary cap, with a base salary of $1 million and a signing bonus of $3.25 million. Ovechkin can earn an additional $4.75 million by playing in just 10 games, bringing the potential total value of the deal to $8 million. He had just completed a five-year, $47.5 million contract when the 2025-26 season ended.

In a team-issued statement, Ovechkin expressed his enthusiasm for continuing his career. "I'm back," he said. "Thank you to everyone for giving me and my family the time to make this decision. I'm healthy. I love playing hockey and competing to win. I'm excited to come back and join my teammates so we can fight for a playoff spot and have a chance to win."

Ovechkin had said at his season-ending exit interview that he expected to play again but was not committed to signing a new contract until...