In 2017, Nathan Walker was the first Australian to play in the National Hockey League (NHL), and yesterday he continued that trailblazing streak. Walker was the first Australian to play in the NHL playoffs and became the first Aussie to score a point in the playoffs. Not only did he score, but he played an essential role in thrashing the reigning Stanley Cup champs – the Pittsburgh Penguins.
Walker, a left winger for the Washington Capitals, wasted no time in displaying his skills. In fact, his speed, head to head tackles and goal assistance were on display in the first few minutes of him hitting the ice.
Next, the Washington Capitals take on Tampa Bay Lightning, and the winners will advance to the Stanley Cup finals. We can’t wait to see what Walker will do in the next match.
About Nathan Walker
It hasn’t been a smooth skate for Wales-born Nathan Walker. He started playing ice hockey at six; by age 13 he was playing in leagues with players much older than him. His talent was undeniable, but ice hockey isn’t a popular sport down under. This resulted in Walker moving to the Czech Republic in 2007.
The move proved successful as Walker’s ice hockey career progressed. In 2014, he was selected by the Capitals but was sent to Hershey Bears, a Capitals affiliate team. At Hershey Bears, he overcame injuries to be drafted by the main team again and make his NHL debut. However, the victory was short-lived when the Capitals cut him. Walker was later signed by the Edmonton Oilers but was cut less than three weeks in. Thankfully, the Capitals scooped him up again!
While Aussies love their sports and betting on sports, ice hockey has a marginal following in Australia. Given Walker’s success, the previous stance may change.
Since the ball tampering scandal in South Africa and AU rugby’s Israel Folau’s controversial social media posts, Australian sport was in dire need of a pick me up. Now, thanks to Ben Simmons, Joe Ingels (NBA players) and Nathan Walker, Australian sport is on the mend. They seem like a sure bet for Australia and your bankroll should you want to place your sports bets on them.
Find a list of top Aussie online sports betting sites on TopAusCasinos.org.