Alex Ovechkin’s close teammates Dylan Strome and Tom Wilson have shared their desire to see the legendary Washington Capitals winger continue his NHL career beyond the upcoming season. Their comments came during an appearance at the Smilezone Celebrity Golf Tournament held at Lionhead Golf Club in Brampton, Ontario, reflecting their optimism about an extension.
Strome’s Perspective on Ovechkin’s Future
Dylan Strome, who plays as Ovechkin’s primary center, addressed speculations about whether next season will be Ovechkin’s last. Strome pointed out that although Ovechkin’s contract expires after the current term, he does not rule out further years on the ice.
Look, we don’t know if it’s going to be his final year,
Strome told Mike Zeisberger from NHL.com.
You kind of see what he said a couple of days ago, that it’s preposterous that people would talk about that this will be his last year. I mean, obviously, it’s the final year of his contract, so anything can happen. It’s his decision, but I wouldn’t rule anything out. I certainly hope so.
Ovechkin himself has addressed retirement rumors multiple times this summer. Most recently, in an interview with RIA Novosti’s Andrey Senchenko, he stated he plans to complete the upcoming season with the Capitals before making any decisions on his career.
Strome’s Growing Role and Recent Performance With Capitals
Over the past three seasons, Strome has consistently improved his scoring totals while centering alongside Ovechkin. Last season marked a new personal best with 82 points over 82 games, including 29 goals and 53 assists. Notably, Strome and Wilson were involved in the play setting up Ovechkin’s record-breaking 895th career goal in April, underscoring their close on-ice chemistry.
Ovechkin’s Milestones and His Potential Longevity
The 2025-26 season will be Ovechkin’s 21st in the NHL, during which he is just three goals away from becoming the first player in history to reach 900 career goals. He also stands nine games shy of joining the exclusive group of players who have appeared in 1,500 NHL contests.
Wilson shared his thoughts on Ovechkin’s potential to extend his career beyond this year, emphasizing the winger’s passion and drive for the sport.
Who knows what he’s going to do?
Wilson said.
I mean, if it’s his last year, I don’t know. You can never doubt the guy. He could play two, three more years. He’s a guy who loves to score. He loves the game of hockey. We’ll see what happens. He’s going to knock down 900 [goals] and then start chipping away at the next milestone.
Wilson’s Close Bond With Ovechkin On and Off the Ice
Tom Wilson has spent much of his 12-season NHL career alongside Ovechkin on the right wing, including key moments such as the Capitals’ first Stanley Cup victory in 2018. Off the ice, Wilson praised Ovechkin’s personality and the positive influence he has on teammates.
It’s gotta be Ovi, Wilson told TSN during the tournament. He brings you in, takes you under his wing, and just a ton of fun to be around. You just never stop laughing around that guy.
There’s never a dull moment. He doesn’t take himself too serious, that’s for sure. He’s just a lot of fun to go to work with every day.
Contract Status and What Lies Ahead
Ovechkin became eligible to negotiate an extension as of July 1, entering the final year of the five-year, $47.5 million contract he signed in 2021. This upcoming stretch will be crucial in determining whether the Capitals’ iconic winger will continue adding to his remarkable career milestones.
The hopes expressed by Strome and Wilson suggest that those close to Ovechkin anticipate he still has significant contributions ahead, potentially on the ice for two or three more seasons.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Who is Dylan Strome’s wife?
A. Strome and his wife, Tayler Strome (formerly McMahon), have two daughters. Their first daughter arrived in 2021. The couple got married in August 2022.
Q. What is Dylan Strome’s rating?
A. In NHL 25, Dylan Strome has an overall rating of 86.
Q. Is Dylan Strome married?
A. The Stromes got married in August 2022. They welcomed their second daughter in 2023.
Q. Does Dylan Strome have kids?
A. Strome and his wife, Tayler Strome (formerly McMahon), are parents to two daughters. Their first daughter arrived in 2021.