Alex Ovechkin is just nine goals from breaking Wayne Gretzky’s NHL record. He plans to retire from the NHL in 2026 and may return to Russia. Despite past injuries, he leads the Capitals and has launched a cancer research initiative. Despite nearing this historic milestone, he has hinted that he does not plan to continue in the NHL after his contract expires in 20 26. He has expressed interest in returning to Russia to play for Dynamo Moskva, the team where he started his professional career. The hockey world is watching closely as he edges closer to making history. The Washington Capitals are currently leading the Eastern Conference. The next few games, including a California road trip, could be crucial in his pursuit of the record. The Capitals face the San Jose Sharks on Saturday. The game is at the SAP Center in San Jose, California, at 8 p.m. ET. For more NHL news, visit CNN.com/NHL and follow us on Twitter @nhl_nhl and @ClevelandCaps.