0 of 22

The world of hockey extends far beyond the rinks of the NHL today, and fans know this fact well.

Be it though prospect shows, drafts and occasional updates of International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF) play, North American fans are surprisingly well educated regarding the wide world of hockey.

What fans do not realize is that fantastic players have had careers outside of the NHL.

The stories of these players are fascinating and many have impacted the NHL as we know it today.

Check out the top 20 players to never play in the NHL.