The NHL will not play playoff games on Thursday in solidarity with other leagues protesting against Jacob Blake’s recent police shooting in Wisconsin, sources told ESPN.
The decision bans games between the New York Islanders and Philadelphia Flyers, and the Vegas Golden Knights and Vancouver Canucks.
Sources had told ESPN that the NHL and NHL Players ‘Association had been in communication for the past 24 hours, but that the league would not initiate a stop unless there was strong pressure from the players’ side.
The NHLPA had launched a conference call with players on Thursday afternoon to get an idea of where they stand. The NHL also postponed several scheduled media outlets Thursday afternoon.
Earlier Thursday, Hockey Diversity Alliance co-leader Evander Kane issued a formal request from the group for the NHL to stop all playoff games on Thursday, twitter, “We strongly believe that this sends a clear message that human rights take precedence over sport.”
Blake, a black man, was shot seven times Sunday by police in Kenosha, Wisconsin, as he tried to enter the door of the driver of his car. Video of the shooting was circulated on social media, prompting more protests and causing or speaking out for more athletes.
Games in the NBA, MLB, MLS and the WNBA were postponed Wednesday night in protest of racial injustice. However, the NHL completed its full streak of three playoff games, including the Flyers’ 4-3 victory over the Islanders.
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