Major Controversies Surrounding Alexander Ovechkin: A Detailed Timeline

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

Alexander Ovechkin, a Russian professional ice hockey left winger, captains the Washington Capitals in the NHL. Known as "The Great 8" and "Ovi," he is renowned for his exceptional goal-scoring ability, ranking second only to Wayne Gretzky in all-time NHL goals. Ovechkin holds numerous NHL records, including most power play goals, away game goals, overtime goals, goalies scored upon, and goals with one team. He's one of three players to reach 800 career goals, solidifying his legacy as a dominant force in hockey.

Sections (5)

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

2003: Panthers Attempted to Draft Ovechkin

In the 2003 NHL Entry Draft, the Florida Panthers attempted to draft Alexander Ovechkin in the ninth round, despite him being technically too young.

August 2007: Alleged punching of Gennady Ushakov

In August 2007, Alexander Ovechkin allegedly punched Evgeni Malkin's Russian agent, Gennady Ushakov, at a Moscow nightclub, which Ovechkin denied, but Malkin confirmed.

January 2008: Incident with Evgeni Malkin

On January 21, 2008, in Pittsburgh, Alexander Ovechkin made a run at Evgeni Malkin, narrowly missing him, further fueling their feud.

2008: Criticism Over Goal Celebrations Begins

Late in the 2008–09 season, Alexander Ovechkin faced criticism regarding his post-goal celebrations, setting the stage for further scrutiny and commentary.

February 2009: Don Cherry Criticizes Ovechkin's Celebrations

In February 2009, Don Cherry criticized Alexander Ovechkin's exuberant goal celebrations, comparing them to soccer players and advising Canadian kids to ignore his example.

March 2009: Ovechkin's "Hot Stick" Celebration Sparks Controversy

In March 2009, after scoring his 50th goal, Alexander Ovechkin pretended to warm his hands over his stick, sparking criticism from Tampa Bay's coach and leading to discussions about his celebrations.

November 2009: Ovechkin Suffers Upper-Body Injury and Suspension

On November 1, 2009, Ovechkin sustained an upper-body injury in a game against the Columbus Blue Jackets and on December 1, 2009, he was suspended by the NHL for two games following a knee-on-knee hit.

2009: Confirmation of incident with Malkin's agent

In 2009, Alexander Ovechkin confirmed that he punched Malkin's agent, Gennady Ushakov, but stated that it was okay.

2010: Concerns about feud affecting the 2010 Winter Olympics

In 2010, concerns were raised about the effect of Alexander Ovechkin's feud with Evgeni Malkin on the Russian national team at the Winter Olympics in Vancouver.

January 2012: Ovechkin Receives Suspension

On January 23, 2012, Ovechkin was suspended for three games due to a hit on Zbyněk Michálek, leading to his decision to miss the 2012 NHL All-Star Game.

2014: Winning Gold at the IIHF World Championships and subsequent request to Vladimir Putin

In 2014, after Russia won gold at the IIHF World Championships, Alexander Ovechkin requested Vladimir Putin to reward the Russian hockey team equally with the Olympic champions, sparking criticism as the World Championship was considered less significant than Olympic gold.

November 2017: Announcement of PutinTeam on Instagram and Launch of Official Website

In November 2017, Alexander Ovechkin announced the PutinTeam movement on his Instagram and launched the group's official website to support Vladimir Putin.

November 2017: Started PutinTeam movement in support of Vladimir Putin

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

2018: Supporting the Russian President

In 2018, Alexander Ovechkin showed support for Russia and their president, claiming it was not about political stuff.

2018: 2018 Russian presidential elections

In 2018, there were reports that the IMA-Consulting held a $600,000 contract to promote the 2018 Russian presidential elections.

February 2022: Called for Peace After Russian Invasion of Ukraine

On February 25, 2022, following the Russian invasion of Ukraine, Alexander Ovechkin called for peace and an end to the war without directly mentioning Russia or Ukraine.