The NHL kicked off its regular season in Prague with two Global Series games between the Buffalo Sabres and New Jersey Devils, featuring Czech hockey legends like Jaromir Jagr and Patrik Eliáš. However, one notable absence was Dominik Hašek, the Hall of Fame goalie who chose not to participate in any promotional activities leading up to the games. Hašek released a statement criticizing the NHL for allowing Russian players to compete in the league while Russia continued its invasion of Ukraine.
In a meeting with The Athletic, Hašek expressed his strong opposition to the Russian imperialist war in Ukraine, drawing parallels to Hitler’s actions in the 1930s. He emphasized the importance of speaking out against the war to prevent further atrocities and save human lives. Hašek has been vocal about his views since Russia’s invasion in 2022, calling on the NHL to take a stand and compensate Ukraine for the conflict.
Despite not attending the games, Hašek remains committed to raising awareness about the situation in Ukraine and advocating for change. He believes that Russian players in the NHL should publicly denounce the war, citing examples like Artemi Panarin and Nikita Zadorov who have spoken out against Putin’s actions. Hašek acknowledges the challenges faced by Russian players in speaking out but urges the NHL to support those who choose to do so.
Hašek’s stance on the Russian invasion has also influenced his political endeavors, as he ran for senator in Czechia this year. While he did not advance in the election, Hašek remains active in politics and continues to push for accountability and justice in the face of the ongoing conflict. He hopes to see more former players join him in speaking out against the war and supporting efforts to end the violence.
As the NHL grapples with the implications of having Russian players in the league, Hašek’s refusal to participate in events related to the Global Series serves as a reminder of the ongoing crisis in Ukraine. While some players may choose not to take a public stance, Hašek stands firm in his convictions and remains dedicated to advocating for peace and justice in the face of adversity.
