Protests planned as Ovechkin makes first visit to Canada of final NHL season

Alexander Ovechkin, the Washington Capitals’ captain and NHL’s all-time leading goal-scorer, is set to make his first visit to Canada during his final NHL season, which is marred by controversy. Ovechkin, 41, is retiring after 22 seasons in the league. However, his trip to Ottawa tonight for the Capitals vs. Senators game may not be as smooth as anticipated.

The Ukrainian Canadian Congress is planning a demonstration outside the Canadian Tire Centre, titled "No War Crimes in Hockey," to voice opposition to Ovechkin's backing of Russian President Vladimir Putin.

This is not the only issue surrounding Ovechkin's Canadian tour. Russia's recent reinstatement into international hockey, following its ban since the 2022 invasion of Ukraine, is also creating ripples. The Court of Arbitration for Sport has granted Russia's return, but Prime Minister Mark Carney has announced that Russian players will not be permitted to represent their nation at the upcoming world junior hockey championship in Alberta, scheduled for next month.

Ovechkin's 41st birthday coincides with his first step onto Canadian soil since announcing his retirement. The Washington Capitals will face the Senators again on April 8, a date that will also see a Russian team return to the international stage, despite the ongoing controversy.