“None of this is his fault” – Don Cherry vehemently DEFENDS Alex Ovechkin from fans admonishing ‘Great Eight’ for support of Putin

Washington Capitals Alex Ovechkin has faced public scrutiny for many years while having a focused fan base. At first, public trolling started regarding his health, to which Ovechkin later answered and pointed out how he dealt with mental health at that point.

Recently after crossing Gordie Howe’s record the Great Eight has started his chase towards Wayne Gretzky to break the NHL All-Time record. In his case, many fans have spoken out negatively, pointing out how the player supports Putin amidst the Russia-Ukraine war controversy.

It’s not only been the fans, but many reporters questioned him on his stance. Ovie has time and again refused to comment on any questions related to politics stating he’s here to play hockey and he’ll answer questions regarding that only.

The most vocal supporter as of now is Don Cherry, an NHL broadcaster, who publicly supports Ovechkin, praising him and voicing against the people who corner him for political beliefs. He said that one’s political beliefs shouldn’t be brought into question in the sports world.

Related: Alex Ovechkin gets scorned by reporters for support of Putin while Wayne Gretzky takes social platform to support Ukraine

Don Cherry praises Alex Ovechkin as the ‘Great Eight’ of NHL

Both Canada and America are countries of free belief, and people are granted the right to voice their opinion. Keeping that in mind, Alex Ovechkin’s stand for Putin shouldn’t be an issue, according to Don Cherry. Cherry further states that if Ovie is playing hard and growing the game, the fans should focus on that instead.

According to Toronto Sun, Cherry stated, “He’s a hockey player”. “He has nothing to do with the war in Ukraine. None of this is his fault. He’s not involved in it.” Cherry said instead of “cancel(ing)’ out Ovechkin, they should look at his game.

“It’s the same crowd that went after me”. “They don’t care about hockey, and it’s not about hockey. Alex is a great player and great person, and he deserves better than to be treated like this.” 

Cherry’s support of Ovechkin has greatly upset his fans according to reports. Though by now there aren’t many fans who are dragging on criticizing the player, there is a certain group who refuses to back out. 

To further prove his point, Cherry continued to say, “It’s all about how he is playing and this guy, as he goes for Wayne (Gretzky’s) goal scoring record of 894, is playing hard.” It’s not certain how Cherry’s recent stance on Ovechkin will change anything or not, but it’s been surprising for many to hear his voice.

Another issue igniting the Ovie case is his social media profile picture which consists of him and Putin in a friendly manner. Even Wayne Gretzky who Ovie is chasing after voiced out for Ukraine regarding the war. 

He took to social media to voice out stating there are many memories he loves kept in Ukraine. This was quite a site to behold as the all-time Great and the chasing Great Eight clashed on their opinion regarding a political battle.

In case you missed:

Sidney Crosby joins forces with Nathan Mackinnon and Alex Ovechkin for MAGICAL NHL All-Star Skills competition

Larry Brooks bashes Alex Ovechkin for supporting Putin while in pursuit of NHL history

Stay Updated!

Join our newsletter to receive exclusive updates and curated insights directly to your inbox.

Subscribe NOW