The Washington Capitals have issued a clarification regarding an email sent to season ticket holders that inaccurately suggested the 2025-26 NHL season would be the final season for renowned forward Alex Ovechkin. In a statement posted on social media platform X, the Capitals emphasized that no definitive decision has been made regarding Ovechkin's future beyond the upcoming season, labeling the email, which was dispatched by a corporate sales department member, as a mistake.

The erroneous email included a line stating, 'OCTOBER – the start of Capitals hockey and Alex Ovechkin's FINAL NHL SEASON.' This has raised speculation among fans and followers of the franchise. Ovechkin, who is set to celebrate his 40th birthday in September and recently became the NHL's all-time leading goal scorer, surpassed Wayne Gretzky's long-standing record with his 897 career goals.

Originally selected first overall by the Capitals in the 2004 NHL Draft, Ovechkin has consistently been a central figure in the franchise's history. He holds multiple team records, including the most career goals, games played, points, shots on goal, and power-play goals. As a 13-time NHL All-Star, Ovechkin's accolades also include multiple scoring titles and MVP awards, cementing his legacy as one of the greatest players in the sport's history. While the Capitals faced challenges in the playoffs throughout Ovechkin's career, including a noteworthy 2018 Stanley Cup victory, discussions regarding his future continue as he heads into the final year of his contract.