Arshdeep Bains becomes fourth Punjabi to play in the NHL
The Canadian, whose parents are immigrants from Punjab, India, debuted for the Vancouver Canucks in a 3-1 loss to Colorado Avalanche.
Ice Hockey
Arshdeep Bains of Vancouver Canucks fulfilled a lifelong dream when he stepped onto the ice for his National Hockey League (NHL) debut, becoming the only fourth Punjabi ice hockey player in history to play in the league.
The 23-year-old forward of Surrey, Canada, had 13 minutes of ice time against the Colorado Avalanche in Denver. He registered two shots on goal, three hits and a block.
"For my whole life, I've tried to put my foot in the door at every level I've been to and it's no different here. It's been a heck of a journey," Bains said according to CBC.
"It's every kid's dream to play for their hometown team. First stepping out there, it just feels like a dream. And then when you get into your first shift ... it's just like another hockey game. It was really cool."
Bains has been a Canucks fan since childhood. He was called up to the club last week from their American Hockey League (AHL) affiliate in Abbotsford, B.C, where is enjoying a career-best season having provided nine goals and 39 points in 42 games.
The forward with the Indian roots has already played his second NHL game. He was on the ice again for the Canucks when they lost 5-2 to Seattle Kraken on Thursday night (22 February).
Robin Bawa, Manny Malhotra and Jujhar Khaira are the other three Punjabi players to have featured in the NHL.