Smith-Pelly, Bowey, and Oshie point to Willie O’Ree as an inspiration on 60th anniversary of NHL debut
In 1958, Willie O’Ree made history by becoming the first black player to ever appear in an NHL game. The forward made his debut skating for the Boston Bruins against the Montreal Canadiens on January 18, 1958.
Sixty years later, O’Ree’s accomplishment has paved the way for many NHL players playing today. NBCSN made a video honoring O’Ree for breaking the color barrier and his achievements on and off the ice.
By Cara Bahniuk 3 years ago