Ukraine Trying To Block Pavel Datsyuk's Hockey Hall Of Fame Induction

Detroit Red Wings legend Pavel Datsyuk's upcoming induction into the Hockey Hall of Fame could be jeopardized by recent developments related to his actions off the ice and his links to Russia.

The Ukrainian Canadian Congress (UCC) has publicly called for Datsyuk to be banned from entering Canada and for his induction into the Hall of Fame to be reconsidered.

The Ukrainian Canadian Congress' request stems from Datsyuk's attendance at an event in Russia that honored soldiers involved in the conflict against Ukraine.

The UCC, through its CEO and Executive Director Ihor Michalchyshyn, issued a statement criticizing Datsyuk's involvement in the event.

"According to reports, in February 2024, Pavel Datsyuk attended an event to honour members of the Russian Armed Forces who participated in Russia’s genocidal war against Ukraine," UCC National wrote on Facebook. "He should not be inducted into the @HockeyHallFame or allowed entry into #Canada."

Michalchyshyn emphasized the significance of Datsyuk's presence at the ceremony, arguing that it is inappropriate to honor an individual associated with such a politically charged event.

The UCC's statement could put pressure on Canadian authorities and the Hockey Hall of Fame to reassess Datsyuk's upcoming induction, albeit it's highly improbable it will end up affecting any of it.

Datsyuk is widely regarded as one of the most skilled NHL players of the 2000s and he is set to be inducted into the Hall of Fame in November 2024.

His career includes leading the Detroit Red Wings to win two Stanley Cups in 2002 and 2008 while he also earned numerous individual accolades, such as four Lady Byng Memorial Trophies and three Frank J. Selke Trophies.

Throughout his 953 NHL games, Datsyuk scored 918 points including 604 assists and 314 goals to go with a plus-minus of +249. While playing in the Russian KHL, Datsyuk went on to win the Gagarin Cup once before joining the NHL.

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