If you follow hockey teams and players on social media, you've already noticed the vast amount of statements from both over the last few days on the death of George Floyd and the unrest in the United States. Even the NHL, NHLPA and NHL Coach's Association have released statements condemning racism and calling for action now. Noticeably absent from that list has been the New York Rangers. Their owner has defended that silence in an email to staff.

Jim Dolan, who owns the Rangers as well as the NBA's New York Knicks, decided to send the email to staff after receiving questions from them over the silence. In it he wrote:

We know that some of you have asked about whether our company is going to make a public statement about the killing of George Floyd by a Minneapolis police officer. I want you to know, I realize the importance of this issue. Therefore, I want you to understand our internal position.

This a turbulent time in our country. The coronavirus and civil unrest have taken their toll on our way of life. We at Madison Square Garden stand by our values of a respectful and peaceful workplace. We always will.

As companies in the business of sports and entertainment, however, we are not any more qualified than anyone else to offer our opinion on social matters. What's important is how we operate. Our companies are committed to upholding our values, which include creating a respectful workplace for all, and that will never change. What we say to each other matters. How we treat each other matters. And that's what will get us through this difficult time.

It is interesting to note that Dolan tested positive for COVID-19 back in late March. He was the first known U.S. pro sports team owner to test positive for the virus. He has since recovered.

Meanwhile, according to ESPN's Pablo Torre, disgruntled employees of Madison Square Garden are meeting without Dolan present to discuss the email and the lack of a statement from the Rangers and Knicks. Torre likened it to a "a players-only meeting, except it's the non-player employees meeting."