'Times fly' -- Capitals' Alex Ovechkin to retire at end of season - ESPN

Alex Ovechkin announced Monday that this will be his final season in the NHL.

The Washington Capitals captain released a statement through the team, saying, «I know in my heart it is the right decision.»

Ovechkin, 41, is beginning his 22nd NHL season with 929 career goals, already well clear of Wayne Gretzky's previous record of 894. Ovechkin signed a one-year deal to return to Washington this summer after playing all 82 games for the Capitals last season, leading the team with 32 goals and 64 points.

Ovechkin said he made the decision to retire after this season over the summer with his family.

«It was important for me to make this announcement before our first home game, so I have the chance to thank all the people around the game, everyone who has been so important to me and my family and helped me through the good times and tough losses,» Ovechkin wrote. «I wouldn't have been able to achieve everything I have in my life without them. I am excited about this season with my teammates, and we will do everything we can to make this year special.»

Capitals owner Ted Leonsis praised Ovechkin for his «unmatched desire to win.»

«For more than two decades, Alex has given our fans everything they could ask for: the goals, the records, the physicality, the passion, and an unmatched desire to win,» Leonsis wrote in a social media post Monday. «He brought Washington a Stanley Cup, and he helped create some of the most joyful and unifying moments this city has ever experienced in sports.»

From the #Gr8: https://t.co/KXVdGYUs5j

Ovechkin signed for a $4.25 million average annual value this season, with an additional $4.75 million performance bonus triggered when he appears in his 10th game.

The Capitals also released a video of