Hockey legend Bobby Orr throws his support behind U.S. President Trump

Hockey Hall of Famer Bobby Orr has endorsed the re-election bid of United States President Donald Trump.

The Boston Bruins legend took out a full-page ad in Friday's New Hampshire Union Leader, where he calls Trump "the kind of teammate I want."

The ad, which includes a photo of Orr and Trump giving a "thumbs-up" gesture, was published less than a week before the U.S. election on Tuesday, Nov. 3.

Trump's tumultuous first term in office has been beset in recent months by high rates of COVID-19 infections and deaths, as well as protests in major American cities against racism and police brutality that have sometimes turned violent.

The Parry Sound, Ont.-born Orr, however, says Trump has come through for Americans "regardless of race, gender, or station in life."

The 72-year-old played almost all of his 12 seasons with the Bruins, winning two Stanley Cups, eight Norris Trophies and three Hart Trophies. He finished his career with the Chicago Blackhawks.

Other prominent athletes to recently endorse Trump include golf legend Jack Nicklaus and former NFL quarterback Brett Favre.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Oct. 30, 2020.