In a recent move that has sparked controversy, the NHL has banned Pride tape and 'specialty' jerseys, including the Pride-themed jerseys that support the LGBTQ+ community. This decision comes after the NHL announced in June that players would no longer wear “specialty” jerseys during warmups, with the intention of keeping the focus on the game. The ban on pride-themed tape on sticks during Pride Nights was included in a new memo sent out to players.

NHL commissioner Gary Bettman explained the rationale behind the ban, stating that the focus should be on the ice and that the wearing of specialty jerseys had become a "distraction." However, two of the game's biggest stars, Connor McDavid of the Edmonton Oilers and Brad Marchand of the Boston Bruins, have expressed their disagreement with the NHL's decision.

McDavid, the defending Hart Trophy (MVP) winner, spoke highly of the themed nights, saying he has always enjoyed them. He expressed disappointment at not being able to wear the specialty jerseys and hopes to see them reinstated in the future. Marchand, the captain of the Bruins, believes that players should be able to support who and what they want to support and feels it is unfortunate that common ground cannot be found.

The controversy surrounding the ban began when Philadelphia Flyers defenseman Ivan Provorov refused to wear the team's Pride-themed jersey during warmups in January, citing his Russian Orthodox religion. Provorov's stance led to an increase in sales of his jersey, showing the support he received. Other players on various teams also opted out of participating in Pride Nights, citing both religious and safety concerns.

The ban on Pride tape has also disappointed the makers of "Pride Tape," who released a statement expressing their disappointment in the league's decision. They hope that the NHL and its teams will continue to show commitment to combating homophobia and recognize the importance of the symbol.

It should be noted that the ban on specialty jerseys extends beyond Pride Night and includes all types of on-ice commemorations, such as heritage nights, Hockey Fights Cancer nights, and military and first-responder appreciation nights. NHL commissioner Bettman clarified that these themed nights will still take place, but the jerseys will not change during warmups to avoid distraction.

The decision to ban Pride tape and specialty jerseys has come at a time when the NHL has faced criticism for not being inclusive to the LGBTQ+ community. Bettman acknowledged these concerns as legitimate and emphasized the league's commitment to addressing them.

While the NHL aims to keep the focus on the game and the causes being supported, the ban on Pride tape and specialty jerseys has sparked a debate about the balance between personal beliefs, support for various causes, and the game itself. The league's decision has left players, fans, and advocacy groups divided on whether the ban is a step forward or a missed opportunity for inclusivity.