Arizona Coyotes defenseman Travis Dermott became the first known NHL player to defy the NHL's recent ban on using Pride tape on the ice.
Dermott put the rainbow-colored tape on his stick's shaft for Saturday's 2-1 win over the Anaheim Ducks.
The NHL plans to determine whether or not to discipline Dermott for defying the ban.
"We will review it in due course," the league told The Athletic's Ian Mendes in a statement.
The makers of Pride Tape showed their appreciation to Dermott for using the product.
Congratulations Travis and the @arizonacoyotes for the home opener win today. And Travis, we’re glad you got your tape. Many appreciate your leadership using Pride Tape in game. #StickUpForPrideTape pic.twitter.com/yAqHGyRoeF
— Pride Tape (@PrideTape) October 21, 2023
Longtime NHL executive Brian Burke also expressed his support for the Coyotes blue-liner.
Travis continues to be a courageous leader in LGBTQ+ allyship. I hope other players follow his example. https://t.co/h9zKBgttiZ
— Brian Burke (@Burkie2020) October 21, 2023
The NHLPA has yet to comment on the matter. However, many players have spoken out against the league's ban since it was first reported on the opening day of this season. In a memo that clarified the Pride tape ban, the NHL didn't specify how it would punish those who use the product.
Philadelphia Flyers forward Scott Laughton said he'd probably wrap his stick in Pride tape regardless of the punishment. Flames rearguard Rasmus Andersson said the ban "sucks," and Toronto Maple Leafs defenseman Morgan Rielly lamented that he wished players "had the right to do more" in the wake of the league's decision.
In June, the NHL said it wouldn't allow teams to wear specialty jerseys during pregame warmups this season. That came in response to several players refusing to wear Pride jerseys supporting the LGBTQ community.
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