Federal Heritage Minister Mélanie Joly said she was "extremely surprised" by Hockey Canada's position, while Quebec Premier Philippe Couillard called it "deplorable" and "ridiculous." She said Hockey Canada's decision was "highly questionable" and added that "we always have to affirm the importance of the French language." "I am waiting for Hockey Canada to rectify the situation immediately. Federal Heritage Minister Mélanie Joly said she was "extremely surprised" by Hockey Canada's position said her office was "on the file." Hockey Canada's statement also said the organization "respects all players, their background and their culture and makes best efforts to ensure that player names are pronounced as the player desires."

Source: CBC News February 22, 2018 13:49 UTC