Ryan Johansen Age, Height, NHL Draft, Nationality

Ryan Johansen was born on July 31, 1992, in Canada, where he began his journey toward becoming a professional ice hockey player. Johansen developed his skills in the Greater Vancouver area, where he played minor hockey. His passion and talent for the game quickly became evident, paving the way for his ascent into the junior ranks.

Ryan Johansen
Image Credit: ESPN.com

Transition to Major Junior Hockey

In 2009, Johansen took a significant step in his career by joining the Penticton Vees of the British Columbia Hockey League (BCHL) for one season. His performance with the Vees caught the attention of scouts, leading to his transition to the major junior level with the Portland Winterhawks of the Western Hockey League (WHL) in the 2009–10 season. Here, Johansen began to make a name for himself, showcasing his abilities as a centre.

NHL Draft and Columbus Blue Jackets

Johansen’s standout performance during his first season with the Winterhawks earned him significant recognition. In the 2010 NHL Entry Draft, he was selected fourth overall by the Columbus Blue Jackets. This marked the beginning of his professional career in the National Hockey League (NHL). Johansen played five seasons with the Blue Jackets, establishing himself as a key player and gaining valuable experience in the league.

Trade to the Nashville Predators

In January 2016, Johansen’s career took a new turn when he was traded to the Nashville Predators in exchange for Seth Jones. This trade proved to be a pivotal moment for both Johansen and the Predators. Throughout eight seasons with Nashville, Johansen became an integral part of the team, contributing to seven consecutive postseason appearances. His efforts were instrumental in the Predators’ journey to the 2017 Stanley Cup Finals, a highlight of his career.

Move to the Philadelphia Flyers

As Johansen’s contract with the Predators neared its end, and with the team experiencing a decline, he was traded to the Philadelphia Flyers in the 2023 offseason. This move marked a new chapter in his career, where he continues to play as a centre in the NHL, bringing his experience and skills to the Flyers.

International Achievements

On the international stage, Johansen has proudly represented Canada. One of his notable achievements came in 2011 when he competed in the World Junior Ice Hockey Championships. Johansen played a key role in helping the Canadian national junior team secure a silver medal and earned a spot on the Tournament All-Star Team. His success continued in 2015 when he participated in the NHL Skills Competition and was named the MVP of the 2015 NHL All-Star Game.