In an informal poll, TSN asked 25 NHL players whether they viewed Ovechkin as a hard-hitting player, or more often as a reckless and dirty player.
Eight of the 17 players who responded to the question said they regard Ovechkin as a very good, hard-hitting player, while seven consider him to be both reckless and dirty.
Two NHL players said he is normally very hard hitting, but that recently he has been reckless.
Detroit Red Wings forward Brad May is one of the 17 players who participated in the anonymous poll, but May asked that his opinion on Ovechkin to be revealed.
He said he saw no reason for the NHL to suspend Ovechkin for the hit on Gleason.
"Incidental contact! Remember, it's a physical game," said May. "People forget that. I have no issue with him. He's fast and aggressive and stuff happens."