Alex Ovechkin declines Penguins farewell as retirement decision looms
Washington Capitals captain Alex Ovechkin waved off a post-game farewell handshake from the Pittsburgh Penguins on Sunday, insisting he has not yet made a decision regarding his retirement.
The NHL’s all-time leading goalscorer recently revealed he will decide on his future during the offseason after consulting with his family.
Following Washington’s 3-0 victory over their fierce divisional rivals, Sidney Crosby and the Penguins lingered on the ice to salute the 40-year-old.
However, the veteran winger gestured for them to head to the dressing room instead.
I haven’t decided yet. Thanks to them for waiting out there.
A historic rivalry put on hold
Sunday’s match was potentially the final home appearance of an illustrious 21-year career for the iconic forward.
Fans in the arena serenaded their franchise legend with deafening chants of “one more year” throughout the contest.
Asked about the vocal support, he smiled and kept his cards close to his chest.
I will think about it.
The evening featured numerous video tributes and standing ovations honouring the decades-long rivalry between the Capitals star, Crosby, and Evgeni Malkin.
In a touching pre-match moment, the trio posed for a photograph before sharing a private meeting away from the media glare.
He even took the opening face-off against Crosby after team-mate Dylan Strome was intentionally chased from the circle to create the ceremonial moment.
I’ve got to give credit to the referee there. He thought it was a good idea, so I was obviously all in. Thankfully they didn’t score.
Playoff permutations leave door open
Capitals head coach Spencer Carbery felt the post-game gesture was entirely in keeping with his talisman’s competitive character.
It’s kind of in his fashion. He’s like, ‘I’m not retired, so leave me alone. I don’t want to shake anybody’s hand.’ And honestly, I’m like, ‘We might be seeing them in a week.’
Washington swept their weekend series against Pittsburgh, bringing their regular-season points tally to 93 with just one game remaining.
A victory over the Columbus Blue Jackets on Tuesday, coupled with two defeats for the Philadelphia Flyers, would secure third place in the Metropolitan Division.
This scenario would set up a tantalising first-round playoff clash between the Capitals and the second-placed Penguins.
Historically, whenever these two heavyweights have collided in the postseason, the victor has gone on to lift the Stanley Cup.
For now, the focus shifts to Columbus, where a playoff berth could ensure the forward’s extraordinary journey continues a little longer.
