McDavid Speaks Out on Pride, Not Happy with NHL Banning Jerseys

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Ryan Hall
October 4, 2023 (0:46)

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It has been well over six months since the controversy of pride jerseys in the NHL took hold of the media and fans across the league. It all began when former Flyers defenseman Ivan Provorov decided not to wear a pride jersey during warm-up as he felt it contradicted with his beliefs from his church.

After that announcement, more players began to speak up about their lack of support for wearing pride jerseys during warm-ups, which in turn set off a firestorm of debate and discussion amongst many throughout the league and the fan base.

Over the summer, the NHL decided that they will no longer allow pride jerseys to be worn during warm-up for any NHL organization moving forward. As the NHL continues to hold onto the theme of "Hockey is for Everyone," the NHL will allow teams to continue Pride Night along with Hockey Fights Cancer and Gender Equality Night for this season.

Stars in the NHL have now begun to voice their disdain for the ban and have begun to speak out to the media on their beliefs and thoughts about this. Edmonton Oilers superstar Connor McDavid recently voiced his opinion on the matter and expressed his disappointment with the NHL's decision.

«I know in Edmonton, we were one of the first teams to use the Pride Tape,» McDavid said. «In our dressing room, we strongly feel that hockey is for everybody. That includes the Pride Nights.»

Despite the disappointment, McDavid released a statement last season on how Pride Night is extremely important for the NHL and its fan base as they continue to strive for inclusivity.

«I don't think it had to have been a distraction, It could have been a non-issue while focusing on the good that was coming out of those nights.»

It's highly unlikely that the NHL will reverse its decision even if McDavid and other superstars begin to speak out about this. However, players like McDavid have influence on the NHL and potentially one day it could change.