NHL Reverses Ban on Pride Tape After Travis Dermott Defies It

After the Arizona Coyotes’ Travis Dermott boldly defied the National Hockey League’s (NHL) ban on Pride tape, the league has decided to rescind its rule. During a Saturday afternoon game, Dermott wrapped Pride tape around his Warrior stick, despite it being prohibited for displaying “cause messaging.” The ban additionally prohibited players from wearing “specialty” jerseys that supported groups such as Pride, the military, or Black and Latino heritage months during practices, warmups, or games. Pride nights became a contentious topic last season when six players refused to participate in warmups after their teammates wore rainbow jerseys.

In an interview with The Athletic on Monday, Dermott expressed his hope of making a positive impact on those who were in need. Interestingly, the NHL did not reach out to Dermott regarding any potential suspension or fine for his actions. Instead, on Tuesday, the league announced that players would be allowed to show support for “social causes with their stick tape.” The You Can Play Project, an organization advocating for LGBTQ+ participation in sports, expressed their gratitude for the NHL’s decision, stating, “We appreciate every person, team, and organization that voiced their support for this change and commend the NHL for its willingness to listen and make the right choice.”