Alexander Kozhevnikov, a two-time Olympic hockey champion from St. Petersburg, publicly supported SKA Saint Petersburg’s decision to grant Russian citizenship to Canadian forward Brendan Lipsic. Kozhevnikov spoke with metaratings.ru, offering his perspective on the move and its implications for the game and for Lipsic personally.
He argued that Lipsic, if he truly wishes to obtain a passport, should pursue that path and stay in Russia. Lipsic’s motives, Kozhevnikov noted, are understandable. He is concerned for his family, and his affection for Russia is evident. The former player suggested that in the United States the environment can be “turbulent,” and that Russia could offer Lipsic a stable home where he can raise his children with fewer external pressures.
“If this crosses a line, then so be it. It should be welcomed,” Kozhevnikov added. The question remains, will Lipsic represent Russia on the ice? Critics might wonder if there is room for him among homegrown talents. Kozhevnikov challenged that notion, pointing out Russia’s deep pool of scoring forwards and the strong tradition of national players who shine on the global stage. He implied that adopting Russian citizenship would not undermine domestic talents, but could enhance the country’s depth in the sport.
In July 2023, Lipsic in North America expressed a clear desire to accept Russian citizenship and even wrote a letter to President Vladimir Putin. His contract with SKA Saint Petersburg runs through April 30, 2025. During the current Kontinental Hockey League season, Lipsic has posted four points in 14 games, registering two goals and two assists as he adapts to the league’s style of play.
Born in 1990, Lipsic was selected 89th overall by the Nashville Predators in the 2012 NHL Entry Draft. Over his NHL career, he played 187 games across five teams, tallying 59 points (16 goals and 43 assists). His journey has taken him from North American hockey to major Russian clubs, including SKA, CSKA Moscow, and Metallurg Magnitogorsk, where he has continued to compete at a high level.
Beyond his time with SKA, Lipsic has had stints with CSKA Moscow and Metallurg Magnitogorsk, reflecting a varied career across Russia’s top-tier teams. In discussions around his potential citizenship and future, observers note the broader context of players weighing national allegiance with professional opportunities, and Lipsic’s case has become a focal point in those debates. Three name options for Lipsic were previously floated by SKA, illustrating the team’s careful approach to public presentation during a high-profile transition.