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Alex Ovechkin arrives in China to much fanfare, drops ceremonial first puck before hockey game

By Ian Oland

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August 4, 2019 8:36 am

Washington Capitals captain Alex Ovechkin arrived in China on Sunday to begin his five days in the Middle Kingdom. Ovechkin will be serving as an ambassador of the NHL to help grow the game in Asia.

The future Hall of Famer arrived in China around midnight Eastern Time and was greeted by throngs of fans at the airport. Ovechkin signed autographs, took photos, and high-fived fans.

Video

“Hey, guys. I’m here in China,” Ovechkin said. “I’m really excited to be here for five days. I can’t wait to see the town and meet up with the people and enjoy my time. See you soon and best of luck.”

The Capitals’ Twitter account posted video of adorable children giving Ovi a Chinese welcome.

Here are more photos from the Capitals’ account at the airport.

Six hours after departing the airport, Ovechkin dropped the ceremonial first puck between ORG vs. Kunlun Red Stars in front of a smattering of fans.

The game was part of the Renaissance Hockey Cup in Beijing at ORG Arena.

Ovi again met with fans and took photos with players from each team.

He also received a traditional jade carving of an ox from Mr. Zhou Yunjie of ORG Packaging as a gift because he was born during the Chinese Year of the Ox. This is a great gesture, but I’m sorry, but this is a missed opportunity to gift him a goat.

Yes. Yes he is.

Highlights video

Headline photo: @Capitals

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