Washington Capitals say Alex Ovechkin was asked to film a ad spot for United Russia, the pro-Putin party, during his visit home this summer.
The team said he was asked, but would not say whether he agreed.
News reports call the ad 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 made no public comment.
The request occurred during his trip in Russia this summer.
The ad has drawn attention because United Russia is aligned with President Vladimir Putin.
No further details have been given by the Capitals.