Openly gay NHL prospect shares ‘disappointment’ over lack of Pride Night support

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Nashville Predators prospect Luke Prokop, who became the first openly gay player under contract in the NHL, issued a statement on Monday night calling out the recent decision by a number of players and teams to opt out of Pride Nights throughout the league. 

The 20-year-old Seattle Thunderbirds defensemen released a lengthy statement on Twitter saying he believes the recent news surrounding Pride Nights in the NHL "feels like a step back for inclusion." 

Luke Prokop #6 of the Seattle Thunderbirds skates during second period action against the Winnipeg ICE at Wayne Fleming Arena on January 11, 2023 in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada.  (Jonathan Kozub/Getty Images)

"I share the disappointment in what feels like a step back for inclusion in the NHL," Prokop wrote. "Pride nights and pride jerseys play an important role in promoting respect and inclusion in the LGBTQIA+ community, and it's disheartening to see some teams no longer wearing them or fully embracing their significance, while the focus of others has become about the players who aren't participating rather than the meaning of the night itself."

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"Everyone is entitled to their own set of beliefs but I think it's important to recognize the difference between endorsing a community and respecting individuals within it," he continued. 

"Pride nights are an essential step towards fostering greater acceptance and understanding in hockey, and I strongly believe that by prioritizing diversity and inclusion, we can create an environment where every player feels comfortable bringing their authentic selves to