Taking a cue from several other sports leagues, the NHL had postponed both of Thursday’s Stanley Cup playoff games in protest of the recent police shooting of Jacob Blake.
That was merely the start of things as word would come down hours later that nobody would be lacing up and skating on ice on Friday as well for any playoff games.
“After much discussion, NHL Players believe that the best course of action would be to take a step back and not play tonight’s and tomorrow’s games as scheduled. The NHL supports the Players’ decision and will reschedule those four games beginning Saturday and adjust the remainder of the Second Round schedule accordingly.”
“Black and Brown communities continue to face real, painful experiences. The NHL and NHLPA recognize that much work remains to be done before we can play an appropriate role in a discussion centered on diversity, inclusion and social justice.
We understand that the tragedies involving Jacob Blake, George Floyd, Breonna Taylor and others require us to recognize this moment. We pledge to work to use our sport to influence positive change in society.”
The New York Islanders were set to face off against the Philadelphia Flyers in Game 3 on Thursday, while the Vancouver Canucks and Vegas Golden Knights also would have had their third matchup.
The NHL’s decision comes one day after the NBA, WNBA and MLB all postponed their own games on Wednesday night.
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Blake, a 29-year-old Black man, was shot seven times in the back by cops, leaving him paralyzed from the waist down.
