The 19-year old was drafted in the third round of last year’s NHL Draft and played for the Calgary Hitmen in the Western Hockey League in Canada last season. He told ESPN coming out publicly would help ease his mind and play his best. “Luke is a valued prospect of the Nashville Predators and we think he has a bright future,” said Nashville President of Hockey Operations/General Manager David Poile in a statement. “We want Luke to become a successful hockey player, and we understand his ability to be out comfortably will help him achieve his goals on and off the ice. We are committed to ensuring nothing stands in the way of his ability. His courage is an inspiration to us, and to the LGBTQ community in Nashville.”