"It's like you're here today and gone tomorrow. Fredericton's O'Ree broke the NHL's colour barrier Jan. 18, 1958 with the Boston Bruins. Winnipeg Jets captain Blake Wheeler informed reporters Tuesday "we have to be as involved in this as black professional athletes. "It's like you're here today and gone tomorrow. Fredericton's O'Ree broke the NHL's colour barrier Jan. 18, 1958 with the Boston Bruins. Winnipeg Jets captain Blake Wheeler told reporters Tuesday "we have to be as involved in this as black athletes.