What happened: The Washington Capitals announced that Alex Ovechkin is returning on a one-year contract. The deal keeps the franchise's signature player in Washington for the upcoming 2026 season.

Why it matters: Ovechkin remains the face of the Capitals and the anchor of their forward group, so locking him in shapes both the roster and the direction of the season ahead. A one-year term keeps Washington's commitment short while preserving the continuity of its most important player.

What to watch: Watch for how the Capitals build their roster around him this offseason and where he opens the 2026 season in the lineup.