Florida Panthers veterans Eric and Marc Staal didn't participate in warmups Thursday as the team donned a Pride-themed jersey.

The brothers said they didn't wear the jersey due to their Christian beliefs.

"After many thoughts, prayers, and discussions, we have chosen not to wear a Pride jersey tonight," the duo said in a joint statement, according to The Associated Press' Tim Reynolds. "We carry no judgment on how people choose to live their lives and believe that all people should be welcome in all aspects of the game of hockey.

"Having said that, we feel that by us wearing a Pride jersey, it goes against our Christian beliefs," the statement continues. "We hope you can respect this statement, we will not be speaking any further on this matter and would like to continue to focus on the game and helping the Florida Panthers win the Stanley Cup."

The Staal brothers' decision comes days after San Jose Sharks goaltender James Reimer declined to wear his team's Pride-themed warmup jersey.

Eric is the NHL's active games-played leader with 1,354 contests. The 38-year-old has 13 goals and 25 points this season.

Marc has played in all 71 of the Panthers' games this campaign, tallying 12 points.

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