Steve Levy says ABC told not to ask Alex Ovechkin about his future during pregame interview

"Atmosphere, hanging out with the boys, and obviously- we still love hockey, so that's the most important thing. Ovechkin's response when asked what motivates him to come to the rink every day, emphasizing the combination of team camaraderie and his enduring passion for the sport as the primary drivers of his continued participation."

"Because right now, hockey is so hard, it's so fast. I'm 40, and it's hard to keep up with young guys. You know? But most important thing is health-wise. I don't wanna be like, I don't wanna play hockey, and then after one or two years, my knee or my elbow or my back is gonna be hurting. Ovechkin explaining the physical challenges of playing at 40 and his commitment to making retirement decisions based on long-term health considerations rather than immediate performance."

Alex Ovechkin participated in a pregame interview with ABC before the Capitals' loss to the Boston Bruins. When asked about his motivation after two decades as an NHL face, Ovechkin cited the atmosphere, camaraderie with teammates, and his continued love of hockey. He shared that he ate spaghetti with his kids before the afternoon game, contrasting with his typical pregame chicken parm meal before evening games. Notably, ABC was instructed not to discuss whether this would be Ovechkin's final season. At 40 years old in the last year of his contract, Ovechkin will decide his future after the season ends, prioritizing his physical health and long-term well-being over continuing to play.

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