After years of feeling alienated by the NHL and campaigning to diversify the sport, Akim Aliu is getting another shot at playing pro hockey, this time with the San Jose Sharks’ minor league affiliate.

Sharks general manager Mike Grier informed reporters at the league’s GM meetings in Florida on Wednesday he offered Aliu a tryout contract with the American Hockey League’s San Jose Barracuda for the remainder of the season.

The 34-year-old Aliu, who plays defence, confirmed the tryout by text to The Associated Press, saying his flight had just landed in California.

“It’s huge. I’ve prided myself on always doing things the right way morally, and never wavered through all the dark times,” Aliu wrote. “Extremely blessed to get this opportunity.”