The Main Reason the NHL Cancelled Pride Jerseys Has Been Revealed

Russian players who participate in these pride nights could potentially receive arrest warrants in their home country, which could be detrimental to their lives after their time in the NHL.

Russia updated its anti-gay laws in December, making it illegal to spread "propaganda" about "nontraditional sexual relations" in all media, including social, advertising, and movies. Ben Noble, an associate professor of Russian politics at University College London, says that Russian players are "absolutely" at risk should they wear pride-themed warm-up jerseys. "These are legitimate fears," Noble commented that.

Several NHL teams have cancelled their pride nights, particularly those with high-profile Russian players. For example, the Minnesota Wild rely heavily on their franchise player, Kirill Kaprizov, who is from Russia. Similarly, the New York Islanders have goaltender Ilya Samsonov, while the Rangers have a cast of Russian players, including Artemi Panarin, Igor Shesterkin, and Vladimir Tarasenko.

While the level of clarity about the situation is intriguing, it's also disheartening to see a government impede progress on a worthy cause. It's unfortunate that Russian players cannot participate in pride nights without fear of reprisals in their home country, and it highlights the need for continued efforts towards greater acceptance and tolerance worldwide.