Alex Ovechkin triggers $4.75 million bonus in Capitals win

Washington Capitals veteran Alex Ovechkin has triggered a $4.75 million performance bonus after appearing in his tenth game of the 2026-27 season. The milestone occurred during a 4-3 overtime victory against the Buffalo Sabres.

Ovechkin, who previously announced this will be his final NHL season, will earn a total of $9 million this year, consisting of a $1 million base salary and a $3.25 million signing bonus. While his cap hit remains $4.25 million, the bonus may impact the Capitals' salary cap next season if the team exceeds its limit by year-end.

Despite the financial milestone, Ovechkin recorded a career-low 11:43 of ice time during the game and finished with no points. The 41-year-old has recorded four points in ten games, marking a slow start to his final campaign.