Fans are stunned as Alex Ovechkin teases return after breaking Wayne Gretzky's goal record

It's been a season to remember for Capitals fans and not only did Alex Ovechkin officially pass Wayne Gretzky with his record-breaking 895th career goal, but the team has bounced back in a big way.

After last year's disappointing playoff sweep, the Caps have emerged as one of the top contenders in the NHL and they are giving hopes od another Stanley Cup run.

But with all the excitement, there's also a sense of bittersweet reality since Alex Ovechkin who is now approaching his 40th birthday in September has just one year left on his current contract.

Retirement talk is growing louder and there's speculation that he may decide to finish his playing days back home in Russia.

That's what made his lighthearted remark during today's tribute so good.

When Ovechkin joked about a 13-year extension, the crowd erupted since they knew well that such contracts are no longer allowed under NHL rules and that the current maximum is eight years.

Still, it gave fans a glimmer of hope that the «Great Eight» isn't done just yet with his career and if he does extend his stay in D.C., it would most likely be on a shorter deal.

Even so, that would be a welcome gift for the Washington Capitals supporters who aren't ready to say goodbye, but for now, the future remains uncertain.

But whether he plays one more year or a few, Ovechkin's legacy in Washington is already carved in stone.