Boston Bruins, Willie O'Ree (Photo by Presley Ann/Getty Images)
One month ago, the Boston Bruins announced that they are retiring the number of former winger Willie O’Ree. O’Ree broke a big barrier when was the first Black man to play in an NHL game during the 1957-58 season.
The ceremony was supposed to be held on Feb. 18 at the TD Garden when the Bruins played the New Jersey Devils. On Thursday, the NHL announced that the Bruins and O’Ree have agreed to change the date on the banner-raising until Jan. 18, 2022, which is the date that will mark 64 years since O’Ree became the first Black player in NHL history.