Ex-NHL ref Tim Peel condemns fans' criticism of Jack Eichel for attending Donald Trump rally

Former NHL referee Tim Peel condemned fans' criticism of hockey star Jack Eichel for attending a Donald Trump rally in Las Vegas.

Eichel, who plays for the Vegas Golden Knights, was photographed at the rally for former President Donald Trump on Friday night. This prompted backlash from some fans online, who questioned Eichel's decision to appear at such a partisan political event during the hockey season.

One fan tweeted:

"BOOOOOO. Not surprised at all. I've never liked or been an Eichel fan. Like Trump, he's overrated and very self focused."

Another fan wrote:

"I hated him before I knew he supported Trump lol, this just helps my case."

However, Peel spoke out in defense of Eichel's right to attend the rally, saying athletes should be free to express diverse political views off the ice.

Peel wrote on X:

"It’s sad the comments about @jackeichel because he attended @realDonaldTrump rally. Who cares who he votes for. Athletes are not one dimensional and should be able to express their views. Jack is a great person and loved by his teammates. That’s all that matters!"

Fans react to Tim Peel coming in support of Jack Eichel for attending Donald Trump rally

Fans have expressed mixed reactions to Tim Peel's defense of Jack Eichel's attendance at a Donald Trump rally.

While some applaud Peel for advocating for athletes' right to personal political views, others accuse him of hypocrisy.

One fan pointedly remarked:

"You're the one that literally makes EVERYTHING political. Love the irony here, Tim!"

Another fan wrote:

"I dont think you need to go there to defend Jack ....that's delicate..."

"I agree athletes should to able to express their views. I think everyone should be able to express their views, including their views about other people’s views. No harm, no foul," one fan agreed with Peel's view and wrote on X.

"I have no problem who Jack or anyone else votes for. That’s what democracy is," another fan wrote.

As the controversy continues, it underscores the challenges athletes face in navigating the intersection of sports and politics.