Since its inception in 1917 -- 18 , 52 players born within the current borders of the United Kingdom have taken part .
The National Hockey League ( NHL ) is a major professional ice hockey league which operates in Canada and the United States .
Since National Hockey League 's inception in 1917 -- 18 , 52 players born within the current borders of the United Kingdom have taken part .
The National Hockey League ( NHL ) is a major professional ice hockey league which operates in Canada and the United States .