Former oiler under fire for controversial social media post

Ryan Whitney, the former NHL defenseman turned podcast host, has once again stirred controversy with his recent post on social media.

Whitney, who is known for his unfiltered and often edgy humor on the popular hockey podcast Spittin' Chiclets, shared an AI-generated image after the Boston Bruins clinched a significant victory over the Toronto Maple Leafs in Game 4 of their series. The image, deemed highly inappropriate by many, can be viewed on his official Twitter page:


The image, which Whitney intended as a joke, has not been received well, sparking a backlash among fans and social media users. Criticisms have been especially pointed regarding the image's insensitive nature towards issues of consent and sexual assault.


A wave of dismay was expressed through several responses online, including those from other Twitter users who condemned the post:





Despite the uproar, Whitney has yet to respond or issue an apology concerning the incident, a silence that echoes the often provocative stance of Barstool Sports, the platform behind Spittin' Chiclets.

This isn't the first time the podcast or its host network has been embroiled in controversy, and it appears unlikely that Whitney will address the issue publicly.

Whitney's career in the NHL, where he was selected 5th overall by the Pittsburgh Penguins in 2005, spanned 481 games, including a noteworthy stint with the Edmonton Oilers. Post-retirement, Whitney has leveraged his charismatic and controversial personality into a successful podcasting career.

Despite controversies, he continues to be a vocal supporter of the Edmonton Oilers and remains a prominent figure in the hockey community.

In the wake of this incident, the debate over the limits of humor, especially concerning sensitive subjects, continues to be a divisive topic among sports fans and commentators alike.

How public figures like Whitney navigate these waters could set important precedents for what is considered acceptable in the sports community and beyond.n.