Gary Bettman Maintains Ban on Players Expressing Support for Communities

For Fleury, this event holds personal significance as his wife is Native American, and the mask serves as a symbol of support for her and Native communities across North America. However, Gary Bettman intervened, bringing an end to Fleury's plans.

In adherence to the NHL's prohibition on players wearing equipment to endorse specific communities or causes, Bettman issued a stern warning to Fleury, threatening a substantial fine even for wearing the helmet during warm-up.

According to agent Allan Walsh, Fleury had initially considered accepting the fine and wearing the helmet, until Bettman escalated the threat to encompass the entire Wild organization. This incident highlights the contentious nature of the NHL's policy on special equipment, which many find crude and insensitive, stifling players' expressions of personality and passion.

Rather than embracing an opportunity to spotlight a player's meaningful support, the NHL chose to stifle it, seemingly out of fear of controversy.

Source: Bladeofsteel