Provorov explains why he refuses to wear Pride Night-themed jersey before cutting postgame interview short

Chatter quickly emerged on Tuesday night when Philadelphia Flyers defenseman Ivan Provorov did not warm up prior to puck drop against the Anaheim Ducks.

Fans wondered if he was being traded, since his name came up in rumours lately, however, Provorov was on the official roster and was on the ice when the game started. It was later revealed that he he did not want to wear the team’s Pride Night-themed warmup jersey, stating his religion as the main factor following the Flyers’ 5-2 victory over the Ducks.

“I respect everyone. I respect everybody’s choices. My choice is to stay true to myself and my religion,” Provorov said cutting his presser short. 

Reporters looked to follow up with more questions, however, Provorov did not answer any more and the Flyers put an end to the interviews.

Head coach John Tortorella too was asked about Provorov’s decision not to wear the Pride Night-themed jersey.

“With [Provorov], he’s being true to himself and to his religion. This has to do with his belief and his religion. It’s one thing I respect about Provy, he’s always true to himself. And so that’s where I am with that,” Torts stated before turning his attention to questions about the game itself. He added that he did not consider sitting Provorov.

The defenseman was the lone Flyer not to skate in warmups with the rest of his teammates wearing jerseys featuring a rainbow pattern on the nameplate and numbers, as well as sticks wrapped in Pride-themed tape. Those were to be auctioned off after the game with proceeds going to charity, with players like James van Riemsdyk and Scott Laughton being vocal supporters of the LGBTQ+ community, partnering with non-profit organizations and hosting members of the community at home games.

Laughton spoke with reporters after the game, but did not attack his teammate’s decision.

“I know Provy spoke. I know Torts did. Me and [van Riemsdyk] just got back from a room with about 50 people from the community. It was a great night. Amazing initiative and something that’s been close to me for a long time. I know Reemer, too. So I’m gonna leave it at that.”

Provorov is in the midst of his seventh season with the Flyers, but it has been mentioned lately, notably by Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman that there are talks that the blue liner could be moved prior to the deadline.

This situation has certainly put a spotlight on him.

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