Capitals' Alex Ovechkin offers tongue-in-cheek response to question about his future

While no longer in his prime, three-time Hart Memorial Trophy winner Ovechkin isn't washed, either. Entering Tuesday night, he was tied for 29th in the NHL in goals scored (32). During the 2-1 win over the Blue Jackets, he notched one assist. 

Penguins center Evgeni Malkin, Ovechkin's close friend, also noted he believes he hasn't lost his love for the game. 

"I think he plays next year for sure," Malkin said following Pittsburgh's loss to Washington. "He's still hungry."

Ovechkin — the NHL's all-time leading goalscorer (929) — may not want to end his final season without any postseason success. Washington has already been eliminated from the playoffs after going 43-30-9 (95 points) this season. 

The left winger has just one Stanley Cup ring. Surely, he wouldn't mind winning another. Washington, meanwhile, should be open to a return next season. 

Ovechkin clearly has much to weigh before making his choice. In the meantime, he'll continue deflecting questions about his retirement. He doesn't want to spend more time discussing it, especially when he may not be ready to walk away from the rink.