Philadelphia Flyers’ Ivan Provorov Boycotts Team’s Pride Night

Flyers defenseman Ivan Provorov declined to appear for his group’s warmups on Tuesday night … boycotting Philadelphia’s choice to have its gamers use rainbow-colored jerseys that supported the LGBTQ+ neighborhood.

Provorov, who eventually wound up playing in the video game after the Flyers changed back to their regular uniforms, stated after the contest he decided due to his Russian Orthodox beliefs.

“I respect everybody and I respect everybody’s choices,” the 26-year-old stated. “My choice is to stay true to myself and my religion. That’s all I’m going to say.”

Reporters tried to ask Provorov even more concerns about the choice … however he shut them down, stating, “Did you not hear what I just said? Can you respect that?”

Flyers head coach John Tortorella, on the other hand, appeared to back his gamer’s option … informing media members after the video game he never ever as soon as thought about not playing Provorov, in spite of the pregame demonstration.

“It’s one thing I respect about Provy,” the 64-year-old supervisor stated. “He’s always true to himself. And, so, that’s where we’re at with that.”

The Flyers chose to use the pregame packages — along with cover their stick to rainbow-colored tape — in order to promote inclusivity in a sport that’s traditionally fought with variety. Philly auctioned off its gamers’ pregame products after the video game, contributing earnings to groups who are assisting grow hockey in varied neighborhoods. Provorov was the only Flyer who didn’t have souvenirs up in the auction.

The group spoke generically about the concern in a declaration prior to the video game … stating, “The Philadelphia Flyers organization is committed to inclusivity and is proud to support the LGBTQ+ community. Many of our players are active in their support of local LGBTQ+ organizations, and we were proud to host our annual Pride Night again this year. The Flyers will continue to be strong advocates for inclusivity and the LGBTQ+ community.”

The NHL has yet to discuss everything.