Published 01/06/2023, 10:46 AM EST
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 got the world talking. Meanwhile, members of the Ukrainian Canadian Congress have written to the Canadian government to deny him 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 opinion 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 dives into the Alex Ovechkin issue
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Abdul-Jabbar recently asserted that although he is a fan of Alex Ovechkin, he in no way is a fan of the hockey star’s political views. Moreover, he suggested some measures which could be taken against him instead of blocking his entry into Canada.
In a recently published article on his website, he addressed the Alex Ovechkin situation. The NHL legend is a few goals away from becoming the all-time top goalscorer. However, that is not the reason why he is in the news.
The Ukrainian Canadian Congress has officially appealed to the Canadian government to ban him from entering the country. The reason being? Ovi 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 that although he is a fan of the Washington Capitals superstar, the NBA legend feels he is a ‘political jerk’ because of his views. Moreover, he suggested some measures to punish Ovi.
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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.“
In the same article, he asserted that he is supportive of athletes voicing their opinions. However, in this instance, he feels voicing support for hard-line politicians defeats the purpose. Additionally, he suggested he wouldn’t want his children to look up to Ovi as a hero.
Alex Ovechkin heading toward a major career milestone
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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 Ovi is currently in, Gretzky’s record will soon be conquered.
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Do you agree with Kareem Abdul-Jabbar? Let us know in the comments down below.