Many National Hockey League (NHL) players are reportedly planning to imitate Arizona Coyotes defenseman Travis Dermott and violate the league’s policy prohibiting the use of rainbow-colored tape.
Agent Allan Walsh suggested this on his Twitter account on Sunday, sharing a video of former general manager Brian Burke. The latter is a passionate advocate of the LGBTQIA+ cause.
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I hear that many more NHL players plan to challenge Gary Bettman’s Pride tape ban in the coming days. The first was last night. The symbolism of Pride Tape is “everyone is welcome.”
Hear from Brian Burke on this week’s Agent Provocateur Podcast. @sdpnsports pic.twitter.com/n1R5xIRvy3
– Allan Walsh🏒 (@walsha) October 22, 2023
“Travis continues to be a courageous leader for the community. I hope other players will follow his example,” said Burke.
Last Saturday, during a matchup against the Anaheim Ducks, Dermott used this symbol to support the LGBTQIA+ community.
“I would like to take this opportunity to contribute and strongly show my support,” he told the ESPN network, noting that members of his family were part of the community.
According to ESPN journalist Greg Wyshynski, the NHL has not informed the Yotes of a possible sanction against Dermott or the team over the use of the tape. League officials only indicated that they would review the situation.
NEWS: I was told that @ArizonaCoyotes were not informed of an NHL penalty against Travis Dermott or the team for using pride tape on his stick last night.
The NHL previously said Hockey Operations had no further action on the matter.
— Greg Wyshynski (@wyshynski) October 22, 2023
The Bettman Circuit rules clearly state that “any color of tape” may be used on a stick.
The NHL rulebook clearly states that “any color of tape” may be used on a stick. Several players I spoke with are considering defying the NHL’s ban on Pride Tape and challenging any disciplinary action. https://t.co/pKiWd9g1K8 pic.twitter.com/GSsuZ7fM7U
— Gord Miller 🌻🇺🇦 (@GMillerTSN) October 14, 2023
In addition to Dermott, several hockey players have expressed their desire to use rainbow-colored tape. This is particularly true for Jonathan Huberdeau (Calgary Flames), Scott Laughton (Philadelphia Flyers) and Jon Merrill (Minnesota Wild).
Following the conclusion of the 2022-2023 season, the NHL announced the end of theme nights. These include Pride Night as well as those for Black History, the fight against cancer and support for law enforcement.
Pride jerseys caused some controversy last year after several players refused to wear them.
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