Alex Ovechkin says he will make decision on the future of his NHL career with the Washington Capitals at some point in July: 'It's not a secret. In July, for sure.'

Ovechkin confirmed he will not make his NHL retirement decision before free agency opens on July 1. Earlier reports indicated his decision-making would extend into July, and he referenced July as the time he would decide in a FONBET interview. He spoke with former Russian soccer players while attending the Russian Cup Superfinal with family and teammates. He said he had not decided and stated that he would decide in July for sure. The Capitals reportedly want clarity before the 2026 NHL Draft on June 26-27 to potentially use draft capital for roster upgrades. Ovechkin previously expressed hope it was not his last game and said he was pretty sure he would return. He could technically consider offers from other NHL teams after July 1, though he seemed to dismiss that possibility.

"You'll play there for another year, right? Ovechkin: I haven't decided. Alenichev: When will you decide, if it's not a secret? Ovechkin: It's not a secret. What's a secret? In July, for sure."

"Ovechkin's self-imposed July deadline will come after the Capitals had reportedly wanted to know his plans. According to ESPN's Emily Kaplan, the team would prefer to know their captain's decision before the 2026 NHL Draft on June 26-27, as they could likely want to use some of their draft capital to improve their roster via trade."

"Shortly after the conclusion of his 21st year with the club, Ovechkin told the media that "I hope it's not my last game" and that he's "pretty sure" he'd return. With Ovechkin also seemingly staying in shape this summer, the Capitals, who are seeking an upgrade to their top-six forwards with or without Ovechkin, could operate with the belief that he's assuredly returning for at least one more season."

"Given that he won't have a decision before he officially becomes an unrestricted free agent on July 1, Ovechkin could technically field contract offers from NHL teams other than the Capitals. Though, on Breakdown Day last month, he seemed to mostly dismiss that possibility. "Probably not, no," Ovechkin said when"

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