Report: Leafs’ Matthews takes controversial stance on National Anthem debate

With teams and players across the NFL taking a stand against US President Donald Trump’s recent comments about quarterback Colin Kaepernick’s decision to take a knee during the signing of the Star Spangled Banner prior to a game last week, the sports world remains divided on the hot button issue. Some fans have come out in support of those who have used the national platform as a way to protest Trump’s administration, while others consider it an insult to the those who serve the country.

Count American-born Toronto Maple Leafs star Auston Matthews to be one of the latter. According to The Athletic’s Jason Siegel, Matthews is well aware of the political strife in his home country, but would never disrespect the anthem for sake of protest:

What do you think? Did Matthews just wade into the political muck surrounding the sports world? He seems to have taken a pretty neutral stance, so it’s tough to imagine his comments garnering any criticism, but with politics… you just never know.