Washington Capitals superstar Alex Ovechkin is all over the news, but for all the wrong reasons. His controversial views supporting Russian President Vladimir Putin have divided the world into two partisan factions. Meanwhile, members of the Ukrainian Canadian Congress have written to the Canadian government to deny Ovechkin entry into the country in the wake of Russia’s ongoing offensive in Ukraine. Los Angeles Lakers legend Kareem Abdul-Jabbar recently chimed in on the Ovechkin issue and relayed his bold opinions despite being an ardent fan of the Russian player.

Former NBA champion Kareem Abdul-Jabbar is one of the most vocal sports personalities out there. He regularly comments on pressing socio-political issues around the world, across spectrums, from entertainment, like new movies and music, to sporting events.

Kareem Abdul-Jabbar makes bold statement regarding Alex Ovechkin issue

The Ukrainian Canadian Congress has officially appealed to the Canadian government to ban him from entering the country. The reason being? Ovie has openly supported Putin in the past and continues to do so in the present. Interestingly, the NHL legend even campaigned for Putin! These points were brought forward by the UCC in their letter to the Canadian government.

Kareem Abdul-Jabbar asserted in a recent article that although he is a fan of the Washington Capitals superstar, the NBA legend feels he is a ‘political jerk’ because of his controversial views. Moreover, separating the player from the man, the Los Angeles Lakers icon suggested some measures to punish Ovie for his continued support for Russia’s onslaught in Ukraine.

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Dismissing any claims for Canada to ban the NHL superstar, Kareem wrote on his blog, “There are other options: the NHL could suspend him, his teammates could refuse to play with him, other teams could refuse to play against him, fans could refuse to buy tickets or watch games he plays in, sponsors could fire him. Preferably all of the above.”

He further added, “When you use your public platform to support a warmongering dictator and murderer (why do so many of Putin’s enemies fall out of windows?), you get what you deserve. Ovechkin is not a man fighting for equality and against injustice, just more killing. That is not a man whose athletic feats I want to celebrate. Nor do I want our children to look up to him as a hero.“

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In the same article, he asserted that he is supportive of athletes voicing their opinions. However, in this instance, he feels voicing support for warmongering dictators defeats the purpose of free speech and prompts the need for consequences. Additionally, he suggested he wouldn’t want Ovechkin to face any consequences if had refused to comment on the situation.

Alex Ovechkin heading towards a major career milestone

Controversial or not, Alex Ovechkin has consistently been one of the best players in the NHL. This claim is further supported by his records and achievements.

The 37-year-old currently has 809 goals to his name and he is racing towards the all-time top scorer title. NHL legend Wayne Gretzky currently is the top scorer with 894 goals. Considering the form Ovie is currently in, Gretzky’s record will soon be overhauled.

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Do you agree with Kareem Abdul-Jabbar’s take on the matter? Let us know in the comments down below.