In an interview with rSports, and reported by the Russian News Agency TASS, Washington Capitals Captain Alex Ovechkin said he is ready to participate in the 2018 Olympics, even if the NHL bans NHL player participation.
“The fans will be interested to see the best players in Pyeongchang. I believe that even if something is not settled, then at least our guys definitely go to Korea, without talking, “- said the player,” (Google Translate).
The NHL has agreed in the past to “provide a window” for the Winter Games, but to date, it is unclear as to the plan for the 2018 games. The article also noted:
“Ovechkin can not understand that if he did do as told, his own brilliant career in the NHL and overseas prospects of other players may be completed. And patriotic sentiments that leaped into it during summer comment will not help to justify. Ovechkin is better to hope that everyone will be able to legally take part in the Olympics than to provoke himself and his comrades on countermeasures.” (Google Translate)
I don’t blame Ovi at all. He really wants to a win a gold for Russia.
He’s got to go and the NHL should support him all the Americans and every other player selected to represent their countries. The Olympics puts hockey on the international map and encourages interest beyond north America which can only be good for the game everywhere…including within the NHL! #openthewindow
Totally agree, Ritchie. I think Ovie just forced the NHL’s hand to “play nice”
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