Braden Holtby has declined an invitation to celebrate the Washington Capitals‘ Stanley Cup victory at the White House with U.S. President Donald Trump, the goaltender told reporters Friday.
The four-time all-star and 2016 Vezina Trophy winner joins teammate Brett Connolly in turning down the visit. Holtby said he had to “stay true” to his values.
“My family and myself, we believe in a world where humans are treated with respect regardless of your stature, what you’re born into, so I think that’s just where it’s at in terms of this decision,” said Holtby, when asked if the decision was related to his support for the LGBTQ community.
“You’re asked to choose to what side you’re on, and I think it’s pretty clear what side I’m on.”
Devante Smith-Pelly — who played a key role in the Capitals’ 2018 Cup win, but is currently in the AHL — has also previously said he wouldn’t go to the White House.
All three players are Canadian.
Despite his stance, Holtby said it is a “tough situation” and he will respect his teammates’ decisions whether or not they accept the invitation.
“I hope … everyone kind of blows it away and we don’t worry about who goes, who doesn’t,” he said.
“That’s why I think our team, we’re trying to take the most professional way we can. Give every player the right to choose and stand by each and every one of us, regardless of what you decide,” he added later.
Alex Ovechkin had previously said he was excited to take part in the tradition of going to the White House, which sees the players meet the sitting president.
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