According to Capitals reporter Tarik El-Bashir, Ovechkin will accept questions at some time, but will likely choose his remarks carefully. After all, Ovechkin has family in Russia to consider. His statements mean a lot, and the terrible reality in Russia is that Ovechkin's words may affect his family.

Here's what Ovechkin has had to say about Putin in the past:

"I never made a secret of my attitude toward our president, always openly supporting him. I am sure that there are many of us who support Vladimir Putin! So, let us come together and show everyone how strong and united Russia can be!"

- Alex Ovechkin, 2017

Credit: HF

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