Crosby, Malkin React To Ovechkin Retirement News

Washington Capitals forward and longtime Pittsburgh Penguins nemesis Alex Ovechkin announced on Monday that the 2026-27 NHL season will be his last. 

Ovechkin has played in a lot of iconic games against the Penguins, both in the regular season and the playoffs, and has compiled 44 goals and 80 points in 83 regular season games against the Penguins. 

Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin have played against Ovechkin throughout their careers and reacted to the news to the Pittsburgh media after the morning skate. 

"He's done everything," Malkin said. "He's played, what, 22 years? He understands the league really good. It's not easy; same like myself, maybe it's my last year too. I still love his game, but again, it's not easy to play every game every night. It's hard because he’s legend, fans love him. He’s done everything for team, for league. I hope he play good this year, no injury. He just stay healthy, score goals, and enjoy the game."

Crosby echoed those comments when he was asked about it.

"Definitely have had some great battles over the years, and obviously, when you get to our age, it's something you have to make decisions on, and for him, as long as he's happy and enjoying it, that's the biggest thing," Crosby said. 

The Penguins will play the Capitals four times this season, including this Wednesday in D.C. Ovechkin's final game in Pittsburgh will be on Mar. 13. 

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