Akim Aliu

Akim Aliu, born on April 24, 1989, is a former professional ice hockey player who made significant strides in the sport despite facing numerous challenges. Originally hailing from Nigeria, he later became a Ukrainian-Canadian, showcasing his diverse background throughout his career.

Aliu was selected as the fifty-sixth overall pick in the second round of the 2007 NHL Entry Draft by the Chicago Blackhawks. His journey in professional hockey saw him play for various teams in the American Hockey League (AHL) and the East Coast Hockey League (ECHL), representing both the Blackhawks and the Atlanta Thrashers/Winnipeg Jets organizations.

His NHL debut came on April 5, 2012, marking a significant milestone in his career. Following his time with the Blackhawks, Aliu was traded to the Calgary Flames, where he continued to develop his skills and contribute to the teams he played for.