Home / News / ‘I didn’t change my mind:’ Alex Ovechkin’s still going to Pyeongchang, believes NHL’s bluffing on Olympic decision

‘I didn’t change my mind:’ Alex Ovechkin’s still going to Pyeongchang, believes NHL’s bluffing on Olympic decision

By Ian Oland (@ianoland) on April 4, 2017 | 0 Comment

Monday afternoon, the NHL announced that its players will not participate in next year’s Olympic Games in Pyeongchang, South Korea. Hours later, the NHLPA responded, calling the decision “extraordinarily disappointing.”

Tuesday afternoon, Alex Ovechkin had his chance to respond and confirmed he’s still planning on playing for Team Russia in the 2018 Winter Games.

Ovechkin also spoke about his belief that yesterday’s release was a bit of gamesmanship by the league.

“Next year’s schedule is not out there yet,” Ovechkin said.

Sportsnet’s Chris Johnston also spoke to TJ Oshie about the matter.

Evgeny Kuznetsov and Dmitry Orlov confirmed they would still participate regardless.

Caps backup goaltender Philipp Grubauer pointed out the hypocrisy in the league’s decision.

Reigning Vezina Trophy winner Braden Holtby announced he would not participate if the NHL’s decision does not change.

Kevin Shattenkirk believes the NHL is trying to use players’ desire to participate against them instead of focusing on the growth of the game longterm.

Headline photo: @lukefoxjukebox

Advertisements
, , , , , , ,