Ranking the top 5 greatest black NHL players of all-time

4. Dustin Byfuglien

Dustin Byfuglien‘s NHL career is more than likely over. His body has taken a lot of punishment over the years and it might be finally catching up to him. If Byfuglien’s career is over, it’s disappointing because “Big Buff” isn’t just one heck of a player, he also has a terrific personality.

Byfuglien got his start with the Chicago Blackhawks as a forward. Known for his size, he was an unstoppable force in front of the net and helped the Blackhawks win the Stanley Cup in 2010. Unfortunately, he was due a significant raise and the Blackhawks couldn’t afford to give it to him, so they traded him to the Atlanta Thrashers.

The Thrashers made the bold decision to move him to defense. Right away, Byfuglien was one of the most productive defensemen in the NHL. It took him a little bit to get used to the positioning, but once he did, he was consistently among the best defensemen in the NHL.

Byfuglien has played in three All-Star games (2011, 2015, and 2016). His big hits are regularly a part of highlight reels. Byfuglien’s lethal shot makes him one of the most productive defensemen in the NHL. He’s one of the most prominent black players of all-time, mostly because of his production and his fun-loving personality.