Players now have the option to "voluntarily represent social causes with their stick tape throughout the season"
There is power in people standing up for the rights of others.
Days after Arizona Coyotes defenceman used rainbow-coloured Pride Tape on his hockey stick, the NHL reversed course and is now allowing players to "voluntarily represent social causes with their stick tape throughout the season."
The decision comes is in the wake of widespread backlash from fans and players, many of whom never wanted a ban on using Pride Tape in the first place. Dermott, who was a teammate of Edmonton Oilers' Connor McDavid both in major junior and minor hockey, was the first to test the NHL's ban by using Pride Tape during game play last Saturday.
Since then, many wondered what the NHL's response would be.
Would the NHL fine Dermott? Would they suspend him? It turns out they caved on the matter.
No matter where you land on this issue, banning the use of something that was always optional was a massive overreach by the league. Dermott is a massive advocate for others who need a voice, and I personally commend him for ultimately forcing the league's hand.
You can expect that others will follow his courageous lead.
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