Carolina Hurricanes Bring Back Familiar Face – Joakim Ryan Signs One-Year Deal
The Carolina Hurricanes have made a familiar face a part of their plans for the upcoming 2024-25 season. General Manager Eric Tulsky announced the signing of defenseman Joakim Ryan to a one-year, two-way contract. The deal, which will see Ryan earn $775,000 at the NHL level and $110,000 at the AHL level, signifies a return to the organization for the veteran blueliner. Having played four games with the Hurricanes during the 2020-21 season, Ryan brings a blend of experience and offensive potential to the team’s defensive corps, making him a valuable asset for the upcoming campaign.
Tulsky expressed his enthusiasm about welcoming Ryan back to the Hurricanes, highlighting his veteran leadership and experience at the highest level as valuable assets to the organization. Ryan’s journey through the hockey world has taken him to various stops, including San Jose, Los Angeles, and most recently, Sweden, where he spent the past three seasons with Malmo IF in the Swedish Hockey League (SHL). His contributions to the SHL, with 64 points (17 goals and 47 assists) in 156 games, demonstrate his offensive capabilities and ability to orchestrate plays from the blue line.
The 31-year-old defender has also made a significant impact in the NHL, recording 24 points (4 goals and 20 assists) in 145 games played. His experience in the NHL playoffs is also a valuable addition to the Hurricanes’ roster, having played in 23 games and recorded one assist, including a notable playoff run with the Sharks in 2019, where he skated in all 20 postseason contests, leading them to the Western Conference Final. This experience will undoubtedly contribute to the Hurricanes’ success in the coming season, providing valuable insights and a calming presence during crucial moments.
Ryan’s journey to the NHL began with his collegiate career at Cornell University, where he showcased his offensive talents, scoring 78 points (19 goals and 59 assists) in 123 games. He was a key player for the Big Red, serving as an alternate captain during his senior year and earning All-ECAC First Team honors after a stellar season. His success in the USHL, where he accumulated 32 points (3 goals and 29 assists) in 53 games with Dubuque, further solidified his place among the promising talents of the hockey world.
The Hurricanes’ decision to bring back Ryan is a strategic move. With a strong core of established players and a desire to build upon their recent success, the addition of a seasoned veteran like Ryan provides valuable depth and experience to the team’s defensive ranks. While Ryan’s role with the Hurricanes remains to be seen, his versatility and adaptability make him a valuable asset for the team, whether he earns a spot on the main roster or contributes significantly at the AHL level.
- Carolina Hurricanes have signed defenseman Joakim Ryan to a one-year, two-way contract.
- Ryan will earn $775,000 at the NHL level and $110,000 at the AHL level with the Hurricanes.
- Ryan brings experience and offensive potential to the Hurricanes’ defensive corps.
- General Manager Eric Tulsky highlighted Ryan’s veteran leadership and NHL experience as valuable assets to the team.
- Ryan has played in various leagues including the NHL, SHL in Sweden, and collegiate hockey at Cornell University.
- Ryan’s playoff experience in the NHL, including a notable run with the Sharks in 2019, adds valuable depth to the Hurricanes’ roster.
A Look Back at Joakim Ryan’s Career
Joakim Ryan’s hockey journey began in the United States, where he honed his skills in the USHL with the Dubuque Fighting Saints. His impressive performance in the league, which included scoring 32 points (3 goals and 29 assists) in 53 games, caught the attention of scouts and solidified his potential as a promising player. This led to him being drafted by the San Jose Sharks in the seventh round, 198th overall, of the 2012 NHL Draft.
However, before making his NHL debut, Ryan opted to further refine his talents at the collegiate level. He joined Cornell University, where he thrived for four seasons, showcasing his offensive prowess. During his senior year, Ryan was honored with All-ECAC First Team recognition after posting 14 points (1 goal and 13 assists) in 23 games, further cementing his reputation as a talented defender. His strong play at Cornell earned him a chance to showcase his skills at the professional level, leading him to sign a contract with the San Jose Sharks organization.
His professional journey began in the AHL, where he played for the Worcester Sharks, San Jose Barracuda, and Chicago Wolves, accumulating 83 points (13 goals and 70 assists) in 144 games. The AHL provided him with a valuable platform to adapt to the professional style of play and develop his game further. In 2017, Ryan made his NHL debut with the San Jose Sharks, marking the beginning of his NHL journey. He played 77 games for the Sharks over three seasons, showcasing his defensive abilities and contributing to the team’s success.
Ryan’s journey continued with a move to the Los Angeles Kings, where he played 19 games in the 2019-20 season. He then joined the Carolina Hurricanes in 2020-21, playing four games before returning to the AHL. This stint with the Hurricanes, while brief, provided him with a taste of the team’s culture and playing style.
In 2021, Ryan made the decision to return to Europe and join Malmo IF in the SHL. This decision allowed him to rediscover his offensive game, contributing significantly to the team’s success. It was during his time in the SHL that he caught the eye of the Carolina Hurricanes organization once again. This ultimately led to his return to the NHL with the Hurricanes, marking a new chapter in his career.
The Impact of Ryan’s Return to Carolina
The signing of Joakim Ryan presents a unique opportunity for both the player and the Hurricanes organization. For Ryan, it’s a chance to return to the NHL and contribute to a team that has proven itself to be a contender. He has a chance to make a significant impact on the Hurricanes’ defense, using his experience and offensive skills to support the team’s offensive strategies.
For the Hurricanes, the addition of a seasoned veteran like Ryan adds depth and experience to the team’s defensive core. His ability to play both offense and defense makes him a valuable asset, capable of adapting to different roles on the blue line. He can provide a calming presence and a steady hand, particularly in crucial moments. Although he might not be a starter, his ability to contribute both offensively and defensively makes him a valuable asset to the Hurricanes’ defensive depth.
Ryan’s return to the Hurricanes also adds a layer of familiarity to the team. He is already acquainted with the team’s culture and system, making his transition back to the organization smoother. This familiarity can benefit the Hurricanes, as Ryan can quickly integrate into the team’s dynamic and contribute effectively from day one. His experience in the NHL and his understanding of the Hurricanes’ style of play make him a valuable addition to the team’s locker room.
The Hurricanes, known for their high-octane offense and a strong defensive core, are looking to build upon their recent successes. The addition of Joakim Ryan to their roster provides them with a seasoned veteran who can contribute to the team’s overall success. His ability to play both offense and defense, along with his experience in the NHL and the familiarity with the Hurricanes organization, makes him a valuable asset for the team.
The 2024-25 season promises to be an exciting one for the Carolina Hurricanes, and Joakim Ryan’s return to the team adds a new layer of intrigue and potential. As the season unfolds, it will be fascinating to see how Ryan integrates into the team’s dynamic and contributes to their quest for success.
