In an unexpected turn of events, the NHL has put the brakes on Minnesota Wild goaltender Marc-Andre Fleury’s plan to don a custom mask for the team’s Native American Heritage Night. The league, citing its policy against specialty gear on theme nights, barred Fleury from showcasing a specially designed mask, even during warm-ups.
Fleury’s intention was deeply personal—he aimed to honor his Native Canadian wife, Véronique, on the occasion of Native American Heritage Night. Despite his willingness to pay any fines incurred, the NHL issued a stern warning, threatening the team with an “additional significant fine” should Fleury proceed with his tribute.
Allan Walsh, Fleury’s agent, confirmed the situation, expressing the goaltender’s disappointment. Walsh stated, “Fleury offered to pay whatever fine he’d receive, and the NHL threatened to levy the organization with an ‘additional significant fine.'”
Marc-Andre Fleury is wearing his Native American Heritage mask in warmups. 🙌 pic.twitter.com/WPSITbHz5U
— Sportsnet (@Sportsnet) November 25, 2023
This incident echoes previous debates within the league regarding players’ expressions on theme nights. The NHL had initially banned rainbow-colored tape on Pride nights, a decision later overturned due to widespread backlash. This time, the clash centers around Fleury’s desire to celebrate his wife’s heritage through a symbolic gesture, highlighting the delicate balance between personal expression and league regulations.
As the Wild refrains from commenting and the NHL remains silent on the matter, the episode raises questions about the fine line between honoring personal connections and adhering to league policies, shaping a narrative that extends beyond the confines of the rink.
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