Alex Ovechkin reportedly ‘banned’ from exclusive interviews in Russia this summer as NHL is making a ‘big film’ about him

Alex Ovechkin is reportedly getting a respite from Russian media this summer.

According to a report from Match TV, the legendary winger has been “banned” from exclusive interviews in his homeland during the 2025 offseason on orders of the NHL. The Russian outlet’s source claims that the league is in the process of producing a “big film” about Ovechkin and likely wants all of his quotes contained for their project.

“Unfortunately, Alexander Ovechkin will not be able to give exclusive interviews to Russian media this summer,” the source told Match TV. “This is due to the NHL’s decision — the league is making a big film about him. Exceptions have been made only for sponsors with whom Ovechkin has contracts, as well as for the press conference format.”

Ovechkin broke Wayne Gretzky’s all-time goals record with his 895th career goal on April 6 against the New York Islanders, which is likely to be the central focus of the film. The 39-year-old Capitals captain’s pursuit to surpass Gretzky has been chronicled in a documentary before, serving as the primary topic of ESPN’s 2023 “GR8TNESS” special.

Ovechkin typically sits down for a few interviews with Russian reporters during each offseason. For example, last year he spoke with friend and blogger Amiran Sardarov about a range of topics, including his favorite NHL teams other than the Capitals and how the Caps have a refrigerator full of beer in their coach’s room.

The Great 8 returned from his vacation in Turkey earlier this week and will be in Russia until he flies back to the United States for training camp in September. He is scheduled to take part in the annual “Match of the Year” event next week, joining fellow Russian NHL stars in a friendly game against KHL stars.

Ovechkin is heading into what could be the final season of his NHL career, as the 2025-26 campaign is the last year of his contract with the Capitals.