Coyotes' Travis Dermott Defies NHL Ban, Uses Pride Tape in Support of LGBTQIA+ Community

NHL rescinds ban on Pride tape following player's bold move, highlighting league-wide disappointment and sparking larger discussions about social cause support in sports.

• Travis Dermott, an Arizona Coyotes defenseman, became the first player to defy the NHL's ban on altering gear to support social causes, notably using Pride tape in support of the LGBTQIA+ community.
• Despite initial concerns about the potential impact of his move, Dermott drew substantial support after sporting the rainbow-colored tape during a game, prompting the NHL to quickly rescind the ban.
• The controversy emerged as part of a broader issue surrounding 'Pride nights' in hockey, after several players chose not to participate in warmups when their teams wore rainbow-themed jerseys.
• Dermott emphasized the importance of using the visibility of his professional platform for advocacy, stating that on TV under bright lights is when these gestures are most powerful and meaningful.
• Despite potential professional risks given his recent one-year, two-way contract signed with Arizona Coyotes after a difficult season, Dermott was firm in his decision on this matter - a stance reinforced by the backing of his team.

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