Nashville Predators prospect Luke Prokop says he is gay, hopes living 'authentic life' helps NHL career

For them to show that support that they did in that moment, it felt like I can rule the world."The Predators released statements of support for Prokop on Monday, and Nashville captain Roman Josi told NHL.com that the team is "obviously very proud of him for taking that step.""The Nashville Predators organization is proud of Luke for the courage he is displaying in coming out today and we will support him unequivocally in the days, weeks, and years to come as he continues to develop as a prospect," Predators president and CEO Sean Henry said. We do not take the meaning and importance of this announcement lightly."Bettman added that the NHL wants to give Prokop a "welcoming and affirmative" experience and that the league will support any other players who would follow "in his trailblazing footsteps."NHLPA executive director Don Fehr also lauded Prokop for his announcement."We know the NHL hockey community will support Luke as he strives toward his goal of playing in the NHL, and we applaud the example he is setting for those in the game of hockey and beyond," Fehr said in a statement.Prokop said "it's hard to put into words" what it will mean to skate in a game next season, knowing his truth is out there."I'm going to lace up my skates the same.