Washington Capitals say Alex Ovechkin was asked to film a ad spot for United Russia, the pro-Putin party, while at home this summer.

The team said he was asked, but did not confirm whether he accepted.

News reports call the ad a political endorsement.

The Washington Post and The Guardian report that the NHL star is shown in the ad.

ESPN also covered the team's statement.

Ovechkin has stayed silent publicly.

The request occurred during his time at home in Russia this summer.

The ad is getting attention because United Russia is aligned with President Vladimir Putin.

No further details were offered by the Capitals.