Caps' GM: Room For Ovechkin To Return

Washington Capitals General Manager Chris Patrick has confirmed that there is room under the salary cap for star forward Alex Ovechkin to return. Patrick announced on Wednesday (July 1) that the team's recent free-agent spending was designed to keep a spot open for the 40-year-old, who is still deciding whether to return for a 22nd NHL season.

Ovechkin, who will turn 41 on September 17, is on an expiring five-year, $47.5 million contract he signed in 2021. He can become an unrestricted free agent on Wednesday, but there is little concern about him testing the market, as he has previously stated he cannot envision playing for another team.

The Capitals recently acquired forwards Jordan Kyrou and Alex Tuch in separate trades, adding depth and skill to their roster. These moves have reportedly impressed Ovechkin, who led the Capitals with 32 goals last season, bringing his NHL-record career total to 929.

Patrick has indicated that discussions with Ovechkin about his potential return will take place soon. He noted that the team has enough cap space to re-sign Ovechkin and continue improving the roster. Patrick said, "I think we'll have a conversation in the near future and get a good sense of where he's at."

The Capitals missed the Stanley Cup Playoffs this season, finishing three points behind the Philadelphia Flyers for third place in the Metropolitan Division. Patrick emphasized that the recent acquisitions were made to strengthen the team, regardless of Ovechkin's decision. He stated, "I'm making the moves for what I think our team needs...to make us the best team possible either with Alex or without Alex in the lineup."

While the Capitals are likely done with major trades, they plan to explore options in unrestricted free agency, particularly to address their defense needs. The team is waiting for Ovechkin's decision, which is expected in July.