Though the NHL is in North America, it draws fans and players from all around the world. However, it still has a long way to go in opening doors to players from indigenous backgrounds.
One of the top prospects from the QMJHL is a member of the Cree First Nation by the name of Israel Mianscum. However, it was recently revealed this forward with the Sherbrooke Phoenix turned down an offer from the New Jersey Devils.
Though this might have been a chance for more ice time for the junior player, Mianscum's agent supposedly had some valid reasons for their decision to go a different route. They also revealed a two-way contract for the AHL and ECHL. For this player, this is clearly not as exciting as playing a shift in the NHL.
Though he sits at the top of the prospect pool, it remains in question whether Mianscum will get the deal he wants. Hopefully, his current performance will be enough for an NHL offer he can no longer refuse.
