“Still enjoy it. As soon as I’m not going to enjoy it, it’s probably not right for me to stay here and play the game the way I wanted to play.” Back in 2023, Alex Ovechkin made this statement, which perfectly represents the truth about his professional career. The 39-year-old player proves age does not constrain greatness since he continues to shine on the ice by demonstrating that true champions possess the heart of champions.

Back in 2021, he re-upped his legendary run with the Capitals, signing a massive five-year, $47.5 million extension. But now, that contract is nearing fulfillment, set to expire right before he hits the big 4-0 in 2026. With his future hanging in the balance, Dynamo Moscow’s president is already eyeing what would come next. Could there be a homecoming on the horizon?

The hockey world is on edge as Alex Ovechkin inches closer to Wayne Gretzky’s all-time NHL goal record, needing just 15 more to etch his name in history. Dynamo Moscow’s president, Viktor Voronin, weighed in on the momentous milestone, speaking to TASS, “We wish him to reach this milestone, the entire hockey world is discussing it now.” But when asked if Dynamo had any big celebration planned, he clarified, “There is no talk in the club about any celebration yet. Of course, if he achieves this this season and then comes, we will congratulate him. We will plan some other events together with him, whatever he wishes.” With Ovi’s deep ties to the club, it’s clear Dynamo is more than ready to celebrate their hockey hero—whenever the time is right.

Then came the big question: Could Ovi return to Dynamo once his Capitals contract is up in 2026? Voronin made it clear, “Of course, we are ready to accept him with pleasure.” However, he acknowledged that the decision ultimately lies with Ovechkin himself, “Whether Washington will offer to extend his contract, whether he will want to continue playing himself – it all depends only on him.” One thing is for sure—Dynamo fans are still as loyal as ever. “And his arrival at the stadium had a positive effect on the fans, they were happy to get his autographs. And Alexander enjoys authority among Dynamo fans.”

The future of Ovechkin beyond 2026 remains uncertain for the NHL, which leaves the chance of his return to Russia up for the grabs. The return of Ovechkin to Dynamo will receive a warm reception from the team while Moscow fans will eagerly wait to see their hockey great return to the ice. And guess what? Ovechkin’s hockey story began in Moscow, and in 2024, he made a nostalgic return to his roots with Dynamo Moscow.

This time, though, he wasn’t lacing up to score goals—he was there to pass the torch. The Great Eight assembled with Maxim Afinogenov and Alexei Kudashov and Alexander Maltsev to introduce the 2024-25 MHC Dynamo Moscow junior team by distributing jerseys to the next generation of players. But hey, enough about what’s next—let’s talk about what’s happening right now.

Alex Ovechkin’s current status!

As the hockey world focuses on the 4 Nations Face-Off, Ovechkin is sitting this one out. Instead, he’s soaking up the Florida sun with his family in Miami, and, of course, sneaking in some training sessions. And just when fans were wondering who’s keeping up with the Great Eight, the mystery has finally been solved!

Turns out, Ovechkin’s gym buddy is none other than former NHL bruiser Darius Kasparaitis! The two were spotted grinding down on stationary bikes in North Miami, with Ovi giving a big shoutout: “During this break, I will be training with my good friend and NHL star Darius Kasparaitis! We have already started training together. Thanks to Kasper for his help!” As an Olympic gold medalist and Russian and Soviet Hockey Hall of Fame member, Darius Kasparaitis served for the Islanders, then Penguins and finally became an Avs and Rangers player before retirement.

And this isn’t their first rodeo. Ovi and Kasper go way back, having trained together in Florida before. Remember 2020? The NHL shutdown left players restless to resume playing hockey during that pause. The two players had already started their training at Pines Ice Arena to maintain their form until the season restarted. Now, years later, history repeats itself—its the same Ovi, the same Kasper, and the same hunger to stay on top.