Latest analysis of Alex Ovechkin's future has Capitals wondering about retirement

Alex Ovechkin has already accomplished all there is to do in his NHL career with the Washington Capitals.

But on some level, the reality is this: He simply loves playing hockey. Why would he stop?

This offseason could be when he calls it quits and retires.

Or, if Ovechkin prefers, he can keep taking the ice. The Caps won't be getting rid of him.

He is technically a free agent, but don't expect Ovechkin to be rocking a different uniform anytime soon.

The only question is whether he'll retire or not. 

In a new article on Monday, ESPN (without a byline) analyzed the possibilities.

"This offseason will revolve around Alex Ovechkin and his decision to continue his NHL career (or not) until that call is made," ESPN writes. "Thereafter, it'll be on GM Chris Patrick to make sure the team is the best it can be for another run at the Stanley Cup with the Great Eight on the roster -- or turning the page to the post-Ovi era."

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Ovechkin has the most goals in NHL history, and he has a Stanley Cup.

His kids have grown old enough to watch him play and enjoy all the history.

Ovechkin has been everything and more than the Capitals could've ever dreamed.

He's near the end, but is the end here yet? He has mostly pushed aside Father Time, and maybe he'll do so for another season. 

It's all up to Ovechkin, and he clearly has a big decision to make.

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