Subban won't kneel for U.S. anthem

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Star Nashville Predators defenceman P.K. Subban says he will not join athletes who kneel or otherwise protest during the U.S. national anthem.

Yahoo Sports first reported Subban's comments, which were confirmed by the team in an email to The Canadian Press.

According to the Yahoo report, Subban said during a benefit at a comedy club in Nashville, Tenn., that he would "never" kneel for "The Star-Spangled Banner" because he has too much respect for the American flag. Subban's comments were sent to Yahoo by witnesses.

Subban, who is Canadian, is considered one of the NHL's most prominent and popular stars and is a black player in a predominantly white league.

Protesting during the U.S. anthem before NFL games has become a divisive issue in the United States. …