Doug Ford defends Wayne Gretzky: 'Give the guy a break'

The hockey world and the political world collided together almost two weeks ago today when Canada and USA faced off against each other for the 4 Nations Final.

Canada, of course, emerged victorious thanks to OT hero Connor McDavid, but the impact of the game in the USA is likely to be felt for generations to come. The tournament created a lot of new hockey fans in the states and opened up a lot of eyes to this sport that we all know and love.

Given the tensions between Canada and the current American administration under President Donald Trump, it felt like more than just a hockey game. With Trump's '51st state' rhetoric and with him threatening heavy tariffs against Canada, the 4 Nations Final felt like political theatre just as much as a sport.

The Great One Wayne Gretzky was part of the proceedings as Canada's 'honorary captain' which rubbed some Canadians the wrong way. Gretzky, of course, is a long-time friend of Donald Trump and a 'Make American Great Again' supporter.

Gretzky is a proud Canadian, but he's also a proud American. He holds dual citizenship and loves both countries. Still, some Canadians can't help but feel betrayed by the Great One lately. He hasn't publicly criticized Trump's threats to Canada and he appeared to even side with Team USA in the 4 Nations, despite being the team's 'honorary captain'.

Hall of Famer Bobby Orr wrote a letter in support of Gretzky and now today Ontario Premier Doug Ford defended Gretzky during a press conference announcing tariffs and sanctions against the USA.

"One other thing I want to mention is my friend Wayne Gretzky," said Ford. "He's the most patriotic Canadian there is anywhere on the planet. As other Canadian athletes go down to the U.S., they hand in their Canadian passport and get an American passport to pay lower taxes."

"I talked to Wayne the other day, he was so choked up talking to me. He's a patriot, he loves Canada, he never gave up his Canadian passport. So you know folks, give the guy a break. Just give him a break. He loves Canada. He loves it like no tomorrow."

For what it's worth, Gretzky himself hasn't spoken publicly on the backlash that he's currently receiving from Canadians.

Read below for our earlier report on Orr's letter

Orr's letter published on Janet's Instagram account:

I might be wrong here, Bobby... but I don't think anyone was boo'ing Gretzky for his lack of a Canadian jersey. I think they were booing him because of his ties to Trump. You know... the guy threatening to annex an entire nation?

I think if Gretzky really were "one of the greatest Canadians ever" he might stand up for his country when it matters most? Why is everyone else speaking for him? A simple 'I do not support President Trump's plans for annexation of Canada, my homeland. I will always support a free Canada' would put all of this to rest pretty quickly.

Respectfully to Mr. Gretzky, Mrs. Gretzky and Mr. Orr, they're simply out of touch if they think Canadians don't have a right to be upset over fellow Canadians showing support for the current American administration. Especially when those Canadians are considered amongst "the greatest Canadians ever."

Doug Ford defends Wayne Gretzky: 'Give the guy a break'

NHL's Stadium Series event ends in major controversy.

Brad Marchand helped off the ice after hit from P.O. Joseph.

Loud boos erupt in New York during Canadian anthem on Friday night