The National Hockey League (NHL) has a rich history, with over 7,600 players having graced its ice since 1917. Among these athletes, approximately 80 have been of Indigenous heritage, representing about 1.5% of the NHL's total player pool. These players have not only broken barriers but have also left an indelible mark on the sport, inspiring future generations and showcasing exceptional skill, resilience, and leadership. Here's a look at five of the most outstanding Indigenous players to have played in the NHL.
1. Bryan Trottier
Bryan Trottier, of Métis descent, stands as an icon in NHL history. Raised in Val Marie, Saskatchewan, his father's Cree/Métis heritage shaped his identity and fueled his determination. Trottier's illustrious career spanned 18 seasons, during which he amassed 524 goals and 1,425 points in 1,279 games. He played a pivotal role in the New York Islanders' dynasty, leading them to four consecutive Stanley Cups from 1980 to 1983. In 1980, he won the Conn Smythe Trophy. Later in his career, he added two more Stanley Cups with the Pittsburgh Penguins in 1991 and 1992. Inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1997, Trottier's legacy as one of the greatest Indigenous players in the NHL is firmly cemented.
2. Grant Fuhr
Grant Fuhr, an Enoch Cree, redefined goaltending during his NHL career. Adopted and raised in Spruce Grove, Alberta, Fuhr's biological mother was of Enoch Cree Nation descent. Fuhr was instrumental in the Edmonton Oilers' dynasty in the 1980s, helping them secure five Stanley Cups between 1984 and 1990. A six-time All-Star, he won the Vezina Trophy in 1988 as the league's top goaltender. In 1994, he shared the William M. Jennings Trophy with Dominik Hasek for fewest goals against. Fuhr's outstanding achievements led to his induction into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 2003.
3. Reggie Leach
Reggie Leach, an Ojibwe from the Berens River First Nation in Manitoba, was a prolific goal scorer during his time in the NHL. Drafted by the Boston Bruins in 1970, he is best remembered for his time with the Philadelphia Flyers, where he won the Stanley Cup in 1975. In the 1975-76 season, Leach led the league with 61 goals and added a remarkable 19 goals in 16 playoff games, earning him the Conn Smythe Trophy, despite the Flyers losing in the Stanley Cup Finals. Over his 934-game NHL career, Leach scored 381 goals and accumulated 666 points.
4. Carey Price
Carey Price, a proud member of the Ulkatcho First Nation, is considered one of the best goaltenders of his generation. Price was a superstar for the Montreal Canadiens for 15 seasons and was one the best goaltenders in the NHL. Price has also represented Canada on the international stage, winning an Olympic gold medal.
5. T.J. Oshie
T.J. Oshie, who is of Ojibwe heritage, has carved out a notable career in the NHL. Born in Mount Vernon, Washington, Oshie spent a significant part of his childhood in Warroad, Minnesota, where he connected with his Indigenous roots. Known for his exceptional shootout skills and offensive contributions, Oshie has played for the St. Louis Blues and the Washington Capitals.
These five players represent just a fraction of the Indigenous talent that has graced the NHL. Other notable names include Fred Sasakamoose, the first Treaty Indigenous player in the NHL, as well as players like George Armstrong, Theoren Fleury, Jonathan Cheechoo, and Jordin Tootoo. Today, players like Ethan Bear, Zack Whitecloud, Brandon Montour, and Travis Hamonic continue to carry the torch, inspiring Indigenous youth and showcasing the ongoing impact of Indigenous athletes in professional hockey.
