Backes opines on Kaepernick's protests, will always salute U.S. flag

With San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick's protests during the playing of the American national anthem making daily headlines in the United States, Team USA was asked about the controversy as it gathered in Columbus, Ohio for its World Cup training camp.

The players will be wearing red, white, and blue in Toronto beginning Sept. 17, and it's clear from their comments that they just want to focus on playing hockey. But Boston Bruins forward and former St. Louis Blues captain David Backes did weigh in on the matter, acknowledging that athletes have a tremendous platform to raise issues and influence thousands, if not millions of people.

"I have my opinions," Backes said about Kaepernick's choice to not stand for the playing of the Star-Spangled Banner, he told USA Today Sports' Kevin Allen.

"(Kaepernick's) going to do his thing, but I salute those who have stood for our country, who have died and given limbs and lives for us. I will salute that flag every time it is raised," he said.

Kaepernick cites inequality and police brutality against people of color as the reasons for his protest.