NHL partially reverses decision on players using ice time to support LGBTQ+ community

The NHL has lifted a rule prohibiting players from showing support for causes or groups during on-ice warmups, according to a statement released by the league on Tuesday.

This decision comes after Coyotes defenseman Travis Dermott became the first player to defy the NHL’s directive by using Pride Tape on his stick shaft during Arizona’s 2-1 victory over Anaheim.

In a statement shared on social media and the league’s media site, the NHL stated, “After consulting with the NHL Players’ Association and the NHL Player Inclusion Coalition, players will now have the voluntary option to represent social causes with their stick tape throughout the season.”

This decision partially reverses the policy that previously disallowed players from wearing pride jerseys or expressing support for causes during games or warmups. However, teams are still prohibited from using pride jerseys on specific nights like Pride Night or Hockey is for Everybody Night.

The initial ban on cause messaging encompassed all on-ice activities, but it was evident that the focus was on LGBTQ+ support due to players being questioned about their refusal to wear Pride Night jerseys.

Several players and support groups, including Twin Cities Pride, collaborated with the Wild on inclusion initiatives and criticized this decision.

Andi Otto, Executive Director of Twin Cities Pride, stated, “The Wild have been a strong ally. We understand that this is the NHL’s decision, not the Wild’s.”

Regarding his use of Pride Tape, Dermott explained to Chris Johnston of The Athletic that he aimed to create a more welcoming environment for individuals who may not feel accepted in the hockey community. “Once we dismiss that aspect, it becomes perilous,” he commented.

The Wild’s Pride Night is scheduled for March 12.