NHL finds that Morgan Rielly did not direct homophobic slur at referee

After an investigation launched by the NHL, it’s been concluded that Toronto Maple Leafs defenseman Morgan Rielly did not direct a derogatory slur toward referee Brad Meier in Monday’s 6-2 loss to the Tampa Bay Lightning.

The NHL did not offer a clear explanation for the sounds captured by the hot mic during the Sportsnet broadcast, but included in their statement released by Colin Campbell that both Rielly and Meier denied that a slur was used and that audio retrieved in the investigation supports the findings from the interview process.

It also re-affirmed its no-tolerance stance on the use of disparaging and harmful language.

“The National Hockey League does not tolerate language or gestures that disparage anyone based upon their race, creed or sexual orientation and continues to work to ensure that our games are played in a welcoming atmosphere for all of our players, coaches, officials and fans.”

There are several theories as to exactly what was said, including overlapping audio from Rielly and Tampa Bay players yelling instruction to forward Yanni Gourde, who was controlling the puck in the offensive zone.

Without more detailed information acquired by the NHL in its investigation or a more thorough explanation from the league, however, what exactly was said and how those sounds were chained together will remain strictly speculation.

Assuming the NHL’s findings are indeed concrete, this is obviously the ideal scenario for the league, the Maple Leafs and Rielly. But more important than being absolved from an ugly incident, they now have an opportunity to continue to stand up and speak out against homophobia, racism and all forms of intolerance in sports.

Rielly and Leafs GM Kyle Dubas met with the media later on Tuesday at Scotiabank Arena, where they vehemently denied that Rielly used the slur.

“I was 100 percent confident I didn’t use the word,” he said. “There is no place for slurs like that in sports or in life.”

What wasn’t communicated was an explanation for exactly what happened. No specific findings from the investigation were shared, and neither Rielly or Dubas wanted to speak for Meier or the league when asked how the NHL arrived at its conclusion.

Rielly, who Dubas said recently came to the Leafs asking to further his involvement in the Pride Parade this summer, seemed visibly affected by what unfolded since he left the rink Monday night. He said that he returned to the rink to discuss the incident with Dubas after being notified, and explained that it was difficult for him to allow the NHL’s investigation to unfold before releasing a statement himself.

Importantly, Rielly and the Maple Leafs used the opportunity to condemn that sort of language and behaviour within their organization or inside their facilities.

“It’s incumbent on us and management to build environment that if someone were gay or questioning there orientation they don’t come in here and feel uncomfortable,” said Dubas.

“If a homosexual, bi-sexual or transgender fan walks into the rink, they feel welcome here and safe here. If we have a player who is contemplating what there sexuality is they feel safe here, they can be themselves here.”

While the Leafs were right to take ownership of the situation and not hide behind the NHL’s release, some questions still remain unanswered. Therefore the process of repairing the relationship and regaining trust with each and every member of their fan base and the hockey community is not yet complete.

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