Washington Capitals say Alex Ovechkin received a request to shoot a ad spot for United Russia, the pro-Putin party, during his visit home this summer.
The team said he was asked, but stopped short of confirming whether he accepted.
News reports have described the ad as 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 has attracted notice because United Russia supports President Vladimir Putin.
No further details were offered by the Capitals.