McDavid Speaks Out On NHL's Ban On Speciality Jerseys

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Kolby Marsh
June 27, 2023 (11:58)

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There have been a lot of mixed opinions revolving around Gary Bettman and the NHL's most recent decision to eliminate the wearing of special jerseys that promote LGBTQ+ pride during pre-game warmups.

MVP Speaks His Opinion

Recently awarded Hart Trophy winner Connor McDavid of the Edmonton Oilers was asked about this decision that was made and he had this to say:

"I certainly can't speak for every organization. I know in Edmonton we were one of the first teams to use the Pride Tape. I know in Edmonton, in our dressing room, we strongly feel hockey is for everybody and that includes the Pride nights and stuff like that. So of course it's disappointing to see. With that being said, that's certainly way above my decision. It's not my call. But obviously it's disappointing to see."
"Everyone has their beliefs. I can't speak on those. All I can speak for is myself and us in Edmonton, and I know we strongly support those type of nights."

Disappointment In The Air

As seen in McDavid's response, he certainly feels a lot of disappointment and unhappiness with this decision and speaking as a member of one of the first teams in the NHL to take action on promoting the specialty, he feels as though better moves could have been made.

As well as McDavid, Tampa Bay Lightning superstar Steven Stamkos was asked about the same topic and responded with this:

Obviously a tricky situation. I think guys should have the right to do what they want. I think that the thing that is disappointing is when you had players who decided not to wear the jersey for warmup, that they were the headline of the story. It wasn't 98% or 99% of other players that wore the jersey and enjoyed wearing it and were proud wearing it - whatever jersey it was, whether it was the Pride, the military night, the cancer nights. Guys take a lot of pride in wearing those jerseys.

As more and more opinions of disappointment are expressed, we will see what Gary Bettman does moving forward.

Credits: Greg Wyshynski - Twitter