Eric Staal made a fool of himself by revealing a lie directly to the media after making a controversial move

At yesterday's Panthers-Maple Leafs game, as we see more regularly among NHL teams, the Florida organization planned to wear multi-colored jerseys during warm-ups to show their commitment to inclusion and to remind us that hockey is a sport for everyone.

However, brothers Eric and Marc Staal decided not to wear the jerseys because of their religious beliefs, as did San Jose Sharks goalie James Reimer a few days earlier.

Although this decision was personal, the Staal brothers were criticized on social networks for not understanding that wearing the jerseys was not an endorsement of anything, but rather a way to affirm that everyone is welcome in a field hockey locker room, regardless of gender or sexual orientation.

During the game, a photo began circulating on social media showing Eric Staal wearing a multi-colored jersey from his time with the Montreal Canadiens less than two years ago.

Where this situation took a completely unexpected turn, and where the 38-year-old veteran covered himself in ridicule, was when reporters asked him about the photo.

His response? He flatly denied ever having worn it!

Completely ridiculous, especially since there is very concrete evidence that totally shows the opposite.

Here's a photo of Staal wearing a multicolored jersey, when he was with the CH:

He now looks like a real idiot with a comment like that, and he's getting completely picked on about it on social media.

Credit: HabsolutelyFan

Maple Leafs forward Nick Robertson speaks out after being benched for a 2nd game in a row by Craig Berube

Edmonton Oilers debut brand new lines in the absence of Connor McDavid

NHL insider reveals Leafs GM Brad Treliving is taking calls for two players recently put on trade block

NHL insider Elliotte Friedman reveals the Oilers are closing in on trading for significant Blackhawks player

Crisis averted: Connor McDavid's injury update finally revealed by NHL insider Elliotte Friedman

Trade alert: The Detroit Red Wings trade Stanley Cup Champion to the Utah Hockey Club

New report links the Toronto Maple Leafs to a 30 goal scorer in a potential blockbuster trade

Oilers' decision to let young stars leave is coming back to haunt them after Connor McDavid injury

Toronto Maple Leafs take a major shot at the Winnipeg Jets after breaking their undefeated streak

NHL insider Frank Seravalli has just revealed the number of games Connor McDavid will miss