Blackhawks and Oilers form circle together during National Anthem before Game 1

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Ahead of their Game 1 Stanley Cup Qualifiers matchup on Saturday afternoon, the Chicago Blackhawks and Edmonton Oilers formed a circle at center ice together for a pregame video presentation saluting individuals who made a difference in their community during the NHL pause representing each league franchise. 

Then, the two squads remained together for a powerful speech on ending racism from Minnesota Wild defenseman Matt Dumba, speaking on behalf of the Hockey Diversity Alliance.

The clubs stayed in the circle following the speech with Blackhawks goalie Malcolm Subban and Oilers defenseman Darnell Nurse both placing a hand on Dumba's shoulders as he became the first NHL player to kneel during the National Anthem.

The qualifying round series is best-of-five with the winner advancing to Round One of the Stanley Cup Playoffs. The Blackhawks are the Western Conference's No. 12 seed and the Oilers are No. 5 in the West.

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