Major Controversies Surrounding Alexander Ovechkin: A Detailed Timeline

A closer look at the most debated and controversial moments involving Alexander Ovechkin.

Alexander Ovechkin, nicknamed "the Great 8" and "Ovi," is a highly accomplished Russian professional ice hockey player. He currently plays left wing and serves as captain for the Washington Capitals in the NHL. Ovechkin holds the record for the most career goals in NHL regular season history, making him the only player to surpass 900 regular season goals. He is considered one of the greatest goal scorers in the history of hockey.

Sections (5)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Controversies & Scandals

August 2007: Altercation with Malkin's Agent

In August 2007, Alexander Ovechkin allegedly punched Evgeni Malkin's Russian agent, Gennady Ushakov, at a Moscow nightclub. Ovechkin denied the version of events, while Malkin confirmed it.

January 2008: Incident with Evgeni Malkin

On January 21, 2008, in Pittsburgh, Alexander Ovechkin took a run at Evgeni Malkin, which could have resulted in a hit had Malkin not ducked out of the way just in time. The two also did not make eye contact at the 2008 NHL Awards Ceremony.

2008: Criticism over After-Goal Celebrations

Late in the 2008-09 season, Ovechkin faced criticism over his exuberant after-goal celebrations.

February 2009: Criticism from Don Cherry

On February 28, 2009, Canadian hockey analyst Don Cherry criticized Ovechkin's goal celebrations, comparing them to soccer players and advising Canadian kids to ignore his example.

March 2009: "Hot Stick" incident and criticism

On March 19, 2009, after scoring his 50th goal, Ovechkin pretended to warm his hands over his stick, sparking a response from then–Tampa Bay head coach Rick Tocchet, who disapproved of the celebration.

2009: Confirmation of Altercation with Malkin's Agent

In 2009, Alexander Ovechkin confirmed in an interview with RT that the incident in which he punched Evgeni Malkin's agent was true, while also stating "but is okay".

November 2017: PutinTeam Announcement and Launch

In November 2017, Alexander Ovechkin announced the launch of PutinTeam on his Instagram and the launch of the group's official website. The PutinTeam was meant to be non-political, but the idea may have been supported by Kremlin sources.

November 2017: PutinTeam Movement

In November 2017, Alexander Ovechkin started a movement called PutinTeam in support of Russian President Vladimir Putin during the 2018 Russian presidential election, describing it as a show of support for Russia.

2018: PutinTeam Support

In 2018, Alexander Ovechkin supported Vladimir Putin during the 2018 Russian presidential election with the PutinTeam movement.

2018: Russian Presidential Election

In 2018, Alexander Ovechkin supported Vladimir Putin during the Russian presidential election with the PutinTeam movement.

February 2022: Call for Peace

On February 25, 2022, following the Russian invasion of Ukraine, Alexander Ovechkin called for peace and an end to the war. He mentioned having family back in Russia and expressed hope for a quick resolution.