Controversy hits NHL playoffs after two players use anti-gay slurs

A serious incident happened during the NHL Playoffs. Two players were involved in a sensitive matter. The way the league responded has led to many questions. Fans and media are now paying close attention.

NHL faces backlash after two players use gay slur in playoffs

During the 2024–2025 NHL Playoffs, two players were heard using a gay slur. Both events happened on the ice during playoff games.The first incident happened in April 2025. Trevor Zegras of the Anaheim Ducks was caught on video using the slur. The video spread fast online. People reacted strongly. The NHL quickly suspended Zegras for two games. Many fans and sportswriters agreed with this punishment.The second case happened in May 2025.

Eric Staal of the Florida Panthers was also accused of saying the same slur. But this time, the league gave no punishment. The NHL said there was no clear video proof. This decision upset many fans. They felt the league was not being fair.Both cases happened in big playoff games. One player got suspended. The other did not. Now people are asking why the rules seem different.Also Read: Eric Staal Returns To Buffalo Sabres As Special Assistant To GM Kevyn Adams

NHL’s past support and changing public view

The NHL once had a good image in LGBTQ support.

The league worked with the group “You Can Play.” Patrick Burke helped start this group. His goal was to make hockey safe for LGBTQ players and fans.But in 2023, things started to change. That year, the NHL banned Pride Tape. This rainbow-colored tape was used to show support during warm-ups. Also, Eric Staal and his brother Marc refused to wear rainbow jerseys. This happened in a Panthers game in 2023.Fans were not happy.

Some felt the league no longer cared about the LGBTQ community.After the recent slur cases, more fans are upset. Outsports, a well-known LGBTQ sports site, did a poll. Many people said the NHL is now the least friendly league for LGBTQ rights. That includes the NFL, NBA, and MLB.The NHL has stayed mostly quiet about these latest issues. But fans, players, and media are watching. They want fair treatment and clear rules. The Stanley Cup Finals are coming soon. But off the ice, this issue is still making headlines.