SEARCH
                 


Detroit Red Wings legend Pavel Datsyuk under international scrutiny for hall of fame nomination

PUBLICATION
Tyler Ball
August 23, 2024  (6:07 PM)
SHARE THIS STORY

This afternoon a new piece of news has come out that has placed Russian forward Pavel Datsyuk under fire ahead of his potential Hockey Hall of Fame induction.

Today Detroit Red Wings legend is under severe scrutiny in a moment where normally he would be celebrated. The longtime NHLer is most known for his insane dekes and incredible hockey IQ. However, today a post on X by the Ukrainian Canadian Congress called out Pavel Datsyuk for his recent support of Russian troops in their war against Ukraine.

In particular, the CEO and Executive Director of the UCC Ihor Micalchyshyn called out Pavel Datsyuk. He also made a plea to the Hockey Hall of Fame not to allow Pavel Datsyuk in.

Our question," Micalchyshyn writes. "Therefore, is whether the Hockey Hall of Fame deems it appropriate to honor an individual who (through his apparent attendance at an event that honoured 'veterans' of the very Armed Forces committing these crimes) this signals his support for the genocide Russia is committing against the Ukrainian people.

He then provided an alternate scenario to Pavel Datsyuk himself. Ihor Micalchyshyn confirmed that an apology from Pavel Datsyuk and a statement denouncing the Russian government would be enough to earn his way back in.

Alternatively, of course, Micalchyshyn writes. Mr. Datsyuk could publicly condemn Russia's war against Ukraine and explain the circumstances under which the Russian media came to write the reports in question.

With Pavel Datsyuk and his family still living in Russia, this is not a likely outcome. Now it is up to the Hockey Hall of Fame to determine what to do.

Pavel Datsyuk was an incredible player during his career playing 953 NHL games and tallying 918 points throughout his career in the NHL. He also played in 5 Olympic Games one of which he took home a gold medal. During the Olympics, he played a total of 29 games and had 26 points.

This will be a difficult decision for the Hockey Hall of Fame selection committee. Pavel Datsyuk based on his on-ice accomplishments is certainly deserving of a Hall of Fame induction. If the Hockey Hall of Fame decides that his post-playing political affiliations are relevant then Pavel Datsyuk will likely have to wait a while to be inducted.

Source: Sports Illustrated
Red Wings Hall of Famer Under Fire Internationally

POLL
AOÛT 23   |   234 ANSWERS
Detroit Red Wings legend Pavel Datsyuk under international scrutiny for hall of fame nomination

Do you think Pavel Datsyuk should be inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame?

Yes20085.5 %
No3414.5 %
LIST OF POLLS