After staying non-committal on his future in hockey throughout last season, Alex Ovechkin has signed a one-year deal to return to the Washington Capitals for his 22nd NHL season.

The Russian superstar’s return was announced by the Capitals in a press release, where it was revealed that he signed an incentives-laden contract to return to the game.

Last season, it was rumored that the 40-year-old Ovechkin was considering retiring from the sport after a record-breaking career in which he passed Wayne Gretzky to become the highest regular season goal scorer in history. 

But the greatest Russian NHL player in history has committed to playing one more season – meaning DC will have more chances to watch ‘The Great 8’ take the ice. 

‘I’m back!’ Ovechkin said in the press release. ‘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. See you in September, DC!’

The Washington Capitals announced the return of franchise star Alex Ovechkin

Ovechkin, the greatest Russian NHL player ever, considered retiring after the last season

Last year, Ovechkin broke Wayne Gretzky’s record for regular season goals in a career

‘We are excited to have Alex return and continue his illustrious career,’ said Capitals owner Ted Leonsis. ‘Ever since we drafted him, there have been two constants: his love for the game and his relentless drive to win. 

‘Alex has always shown a deep commitment to his teammates, this organization, and the fans who have supported him throughout his career. 

‘I am incredibly proud of everything he has accomplished in a Capitals sweater, and I have no doubt he will continue to add to that legacy next season. 

‘He has defined excellence for this franchise and set a standard, and we are thrilled to have him continue writing this next chapter of his remarkable career.’

Per the announcement, Ovechkin will earn a $1million salary and a $3.25m signing bonus – carrying an average annual value of $4.25m. He also has a bonus of $4.75m waiting for him if he plays ten games.

This year, in mid-March, Ovechkin joined Gretzky as the only players in NHL history to cross 1,000 career goals.

While Ovechkin has the record for the most regular season goals, his combined total of regular season and playoff goals is still 10 short of Gretzky’s merged total of 1,016.

Reaching that milestone only added to Ovechkin’s already-cemented legacy as one of the greatest players in the history of the game.

Ovechkin was drafted by the Capitals in 2004 and won Rookie of the Year in 2006

He’s won the Calder Trophy as Rookie of the Year in 2006, the Art Ross Trophy as the league leader in points in 2008, and the Hart Trophy as league MVP three times.

Ovechkin is also a nine-time winner of the Rocket Richard Trophy as the league leader in goals.

Additionally, he’s been named to the NHL All-Star Game 13 times.

But perhaps most importantly, Ovechkin won the 2018 Stanley Cup with the Capitals and was named MVP of the playoffs in the process.