In a controversial move, the National Hockey League (NHL) has announced a ban on players wearing Pride jerseys and other "specialty" kits during warm-ups for the upcoming season. NHL commissioner Gary Bettman defended the decision on Sportsnet, stating that the jerseys had become a "distraction."

During the 2023-24 NHL season, some teams had opted to wear Pride-themed jerseys during warm-ups, while others did not. This discrepancy led to players like Andrei Kuzmenko choosing to skip warm-ups on nights when their teams wore the Pride jerseys, highlighting the divisiveness surrounding the issue.

Bettman addressed the matter, saying, "I suggested that it would be appropriate for clubs not to change their jerseys in warm-ups because it's become a distraction."

However, he assured the community that NHL teams would continue to host Pride nights, emphasizing the importance of giving these events the attention they deserve and ensuring they are not overshadowed.

While the decision to ban the jerseys during warm-ups has sparked debate, Bettman confirmed that Pride hockey jerseys would still be designed and sold, indicating that the NHL remains supportive of the LGBTQ+ community. The move aims to strike a balance between maintaining the integrity of the game and demonstrating solidarity with the cause.

This decision comes after Luke Prokop, a 21-year-old hockey player, made history in 2021 by becoming the first active NHL player to come out as gay. Prokop's courageous announcement was met with widespread support and marked an important step towards fostering an inclusive environment within the hockey community. In a statement shared on social media, Prokop expressed his hope that his coming out would inspire others and promote acceptance in the sport.

As discussions surrounding LGBTQ+ representation in professional sports continue, the NHL's stance on Pride jerseys and specialty nights will undoubtedly fuel ongoing conversations about inclusivity and visibility within the hockey world.