Andrei Kuzmenko rejects pride jersey and NHL twitter blasts him - "Go f*ck yourself"

The NHL community is in uproar after reports surfaced that Vancouver Canucks player Andrei Kuzmenko has decided not to wear the team's Pride jersey. The news was shared by Thomas Drance on Twitter, who quoted Canucks coach Rick Tocchet as saying that "everyone but Kuzy" would be wearing the jersey.

Kuzmenko's decision has been met with outrage from many in the NHL community, with some calling for him to be traded or released from the team. Several fans have taken to Twitter to express their frustration and disappointment with Kuzmenko's decision.

Caution: Tweets contain offensive language.

"Go f**k yourself Andrei Kuzmenko. I have no interest in cheering for homophobes, what a f***ing [clown]."

"Andrei Kuzmenko will not be wearing the pride jersey during tonight's warm-ups. While I still think he is a fan fave and would have set a great example for other russians by participating I also can understand his reasoning for his family well being. Disappointing none the less though but not angry."

More on Andrei Kuzmenko's decision and consequences for his refusal to wear the jersey

The Canucks have not yet issued a statement on Kuzmenko's decision, and it is unclear whether there will be any consequences for his refusal to wear the jersey. However, the backlash from the NHL community is likely to put pressure on both Kuzmenko and the team to address the situation.

The Pride jersey has become an important symbol of support for the LGBTQ+ community in the NHL, with many teams wearing them during Pride Month in June. The jerseys are often auctioned off to raise funds for LGBTQ+ charities and organizations.

Kuzmenko is a new addition to the Canucks roster, having been signed as a free agent earlier this year. Many fans and commentators had hoped that he would be a positive addition to the team and a vocal advocate for social justice issues.

The NHL has been criticized in the past for its lack of diversity and inclusivity, and the Pride jersey initiative is seen as a step toward addressing these issues. Andrei Kuzmenko's decision not to participate in the initiative is therefore seen by many as a setback for progress in the league.

As the NHL continues to grapple with issues of diversity and inclusivity, it is clear that there is still a lot of work to be done. The backlash against Andrei Kuzmenko's decision not to wear the Pride jersey shows that fans and players alike are eager for the league to take action and create a more welcoming and accepting environment for all.