Alex Ovechkin No Closer to Contract Extension

 

Alexander Ovechkin is no closer to a contract extension with the Washington Capitals. 

The Great Eight is in the final season of a 13-year deal, with the Caps earning a $9.5 million average annual value. He's spent his entire 16-year career with the team. 

When asked for any update on contract negotiations by NBC Sports Washington's J.J. Regan, Ovechkin responded, "same, nothing."

Ovechkin asked for an update on his contract: "Same. Nothing."

— JJ Regan (@JJReganNBCS) March 7, 2021

There's no word from either side on whether Ovechkin or the Capitals would be looking for a change after this year. Washington is currently sitting in a playoff position and is expected to contend for the Stanley Cup. The team is not likely to be willing to move Ovechkin this season. 

Through 20 games played in 2021, Ovechkin has eight goals, 18 points. The 35-year-old has 714 goals in his career. With 1,296 points, he holds the record for the most points by a Russian player in the National Hockey League. 

He is not scoring at his regular pace this season but is still putting up nearly a point per game. Some have speculated that anything could be on the table, including returning to Russia, a return to the Caps or a venture with another NHL club. 

With both sides presenting radio silence, contract talks between the team and the Russian superstar will be watched closely as the season goes on. If he enters the off-season without a contract, you can expect speculation will increase as to where he will end up playing in 2021-22.

Photo: Eric Hartline-USA TODAY Sports