Pavel McKenzie comes from a small, close-knit town in northern Saskatchewan. His hometown is so small that there is one way in and one way out of the city.

In fact, his hometown is 10 hours from the United States border. His heritage with the people of his city is so close knit that it means the world to him to honor his native heritage, which the Thunder are doing on Saturday night when the Tulsa Oilers come to town. 

"I grew up in a small city that only has about 2,000 people. We're all very close to each other and it means a lot to me to honor my heritage," stated McKenzie. "I'm very grateful for my parents for all of their sacrifice and allowing me to chase my love for hockey. Also, my uncle and grandparents helped when needed."

Cumberland House has one rink in town. The love for hockey has grown, but in order for him to move up, he had to leave and go play where he could get noticed. Even though he has been away from home since he was 15, he still makes time to get back home. 

"I live in Saskatoon in the summer, but still make the effort to get back to Cumberland House. I have family and friends still there plus the fishing is amazing and I enjoy the outdoors."

McKenzie and his family are part of the Cumberland House Cree Nation. Whenever he was traveling in the Western Hockey League, he made a point to honor his native roots by saying hello and creating bonds with other players who were indigenous across the league. 

"I know last year, Roddy Ross was in Wichita and played against him growing up. He was very influential with his heritage and it was a great influence to me. Now we have players that are making their way into pro hockey, such as Zachary Shantz who is with the Allen Americans."

His hope is that he can follow in the footsteps of players like Carter Bear, Gavin McKenna, Kishaun Gervais and others who have gone on to be successful pro hockey players.

"I want to be an inspiration for future indigenous stars, whether they are from my hometown or anywhere else in Canada."

Mckenzie signed with the Thunder after first committing to play college hockey. He had a successful 2025-26, having racked up 66 points (17g-49a) in 65 games for the Western Hockey League's Moose Jaw Warriors. He helped win a WHL title in 2023-24 and played in four games in the Memorial Cup. 

"My heritage means the world to me. Whenever I get a chance to, I get back home and participate in hockey camps and give back. My brother and my dad were my role models for me."

The Thunder are hosting their first-ever Native American Heritage Night on Saturday. In conjunction with the Mid-America All-Indian Museum and the Wichita Intertribal Warrior Society, the team will take the ice for one night as the Wichita Thunderbirds. These beautiful jerseys were designed in collaboration with artist Taiomah Rutledge.