Washington Capitals say Alex Ovechkin received a request to shoot a campaign ad for United Russia, the pro-Putin party, during his visit home this summer.
The team said he was asked, but did not confirm whether he agreed.
News reports have described the ad as a political endorsement.
The Washington Post and The Guardian report that the NHL star is featured in the ad.
ESPN also reported on the team's statement.
Ovechkin has stayed silent publicly.
The request occurred during his time at home in Russia this summer.
The ad has drawn attention because United Russia is aligned with President Vladimir Putin.
No further details were offered by the Capitals.