Paul Kariya, born on October 16, 1974, in Vancouver, British Columbia, is regarded as "The Original Mighty Duck". Kariya played 15 seasons in the National Hockey League (NHL) from 1994 to 2010, leaving an enduring mark on the sport. Known for his exceptional speed, skill, playmaking abilities, and sportsmanship, Kariya became a prominent figure in hockey.

Before his NHL career, Kariya played for the Penticton Panthers of the British Columbia Junior Hockey League (BCJHL), beginning in 1990. In his first season, he recorded 45 goals and 112 points over 54 games, earning him the Interior Conference's Most Valuable Player (MVP) and Rookie of the Year awards. The following season, he improved to 46 goals and 132 points over 40 games and was awarded the Vern Dye Memorial Trophy for a second consecutive year; he was also further distinguished as the Canadian Junior A player of the year. Kariya then joined the University of Maine's Black Bears men's ice hockey team. In his freshman year, 1992–93, Kariya led the Black Bears to a 42–1–2 record and the NCAA Division I Men's Hockey Championship. He led the NCAA in assists (75) and points (100) and became the first freshman to win the Hobey Baker Award as the NCAA's best hockey player.

Kariya was drafted fourth overall by the Mighty Ducks of Anaheim in the 1993 NHL Entry Draft, becoming the franchise's first-ever draft pick. He signed with the Mighty Ducks in early September 1994, for a three-year contract worth $6.5 million. In his rookie season, Kariya recorded 39 points in 47 games and finished third in Calder Trophy voting. In the 1995–96 season, Kariya recorded career highs in goals (50), points (108), power-play goals (20), and shorthanded points (six). He won his first of two straight Lady Byng Trophies and was named to the NHL's first All-Star team. From 1996-97, Kariya served as team captain for seven seasons, becoming the youngest captain in the league at age 21.

Kariya consistently delivered strong performances, leading the team in scoring in seven of his 15 seasons. In 2003, he led the Mighty Ducks to the Stanley Cup Finals, where they faced the New Jersey Devils. Although the Ducks lost in a seven-game series, Kariya's leadership and skill were evident throughout the playoff run. After nine seasons with the Ducks, Kariya left as the team's all-time leader in games played (606), goals (300), assists (369), and points (669).

Following his departure from Anaheim, Kariya played for the Colorado Avalanche, Nashville Predators, and St. Louis Blues. He continued to be a valuable player, showcasing his adaptability and offensive talent. He recorded 402 goals and 587 assists for 989 points in 989 regular season games.

Kariya also achieved success on the international stage, winning gold medals for Canada at the 2002 Winter Olympics and the 1994 World Championships. He also won a silver medal at the 1994 Winter Olympics and a silver medal at the 1996 World Championships.

Throughout his NHL career, Kariya suffered from concussions, which ultimately led to his retirement in June 2011. Despite the challenges he faced, Kariya's contributions to hockey were recognized when he was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 2017. On October 21, 2018, the Anaheim Ducks retired his number 9, solidifying his legacy as a franchise icon.