“I saw this coming tonight down 4-1 after the singing National anthem to a small group, bad idea bad mojo.” This statement from Ron Duguay encapsulates his sentiments following the New York Rangers’ 4-1 defeat to the Los Angeles Kings on Pride Night at Madison Square Garden on March 17, 2026.
Duguay, a former Rangers player and analyst, expressed his discontent with the event, claiming that 70% of fans did not support Pride Night. His comments came in the wake of a game that many had anticipated would be a celebration of diversity but ended in disappointment for the home team.
Prior to the game, the Rangers offered a Pride Night pouch to the first 10,000 fans, aiming to create a festive atmosphere. However, Duguay’s remarks suggest that the event may have alienated a significant portion of their fanbase.
In a broader critique, Duguay stated, “It’s only a select few college brain washed up, woked kids pushing their agenda on others in the organization.” This comment reflects his belief that the decision to celebrate Pride Night was not representative of the majority of fans.
Additionally, Duguay remarked, “Most people don’t want to celebrate a group’s sexual lifestyle at a game.” His comments have sparked discussions about the intersection of sports and social issues, particularly regarding how teams engage with community events.
In a personal context, Duguay is currently battling Stage 4 cancer, and his family has launched a GoFundMe campaign that has raised $128,000 to assist with his treatment costs. This situation adds a layer of complexity to his public statements.
Having been drafted 13th overall by the Rangers in 1977, Duguay enjoyed a successful career in the NHL, scoring 40 goals during the 1981-82 season and playing a total of 12 seasons, including six with the Rangers.
After retiring, he served as an analyst for Rangers games on MSG from 2007 to 2018, making his recent comments particularly noteworthy given his long-standing connection to the team.
Following the game, Duguay’s social media posts regarding Pride Night were deleted, raising questions about the team’s response to his controversial views.
As discussions continue around the implications of Pride Night and Duguay’s statements, the Rangers’ leadership may face pressure to address the concerns raised by fans and former players alike.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding any official response from the Rangers organization to Duguay’s remarks.
