Val James

Val James (Born February 14, 1957 in Ocala, Florida) is a retired American professional ice hockey left winger who played 2 seasons in the National Hockey League for the Buffalo Sabres and Toronto Maple Leafs. James was the first African American to play in the NHL when he debuted with the Sabres.

Playing career
James was drafted by the Detroit Red Wings in the 16th Round, 184th overall in the 1977 NHL Entry Draft after playing 2 seasons in the QMJHL for the Quebec Remparts. James made his NHL debut for the Buffalo Sabres during the 1981-82 NHL season, playing seven games. His next NHL stint came in the 1986-87 NHL season with the Toronto Maple Leafs, playing four games. James holds the distinctions of being the first Floridian and the first black American to play in the NHL.

He played in 11 NHL games, scoring no points.