Ryan Francis Joins Maine Mariners Ahead of 2026‑27 Campaign
Ryan Francis, a 24‑year‑old forward from Halifax, Nova Scotia, has officially signed a contract with the Maine Mariners for the 2026‑27 season. The move marks the latest step in a professional journey that has seen the youngster navigate both the AHL and ECHL circuits, accumulating valuable experience across multiple teams.
Francis entered the professional ranks after being selected fifth overall by the Calgary Flames in the 2020 NHL Entry Draft. His debut came during the 2021‑22 campaign with the Flames' AHL affiliate, the Stockton Heat, where he began to translate his junior success into the senior game.
During the 2025‑26 season, Francis appeared in 68 games for the Atlanta Gladiators, contributing 30 points (7 goals and 23 assists). He also logged six games with the Gladiators in the preceding 2024‑25 season, showcasing his consistency at the ECHL level.
A Breakout Year with the Trois‑Rivieres Lions
Francis's most productive ECHL season arrived in 2022‑23 with the Trois‑Rivieres Lions, where he recorded 47 points in 57 games. That performance cemented his reputation as a reliable scorer and playmaker, drawing attention from several other ECHL clubs.
Since that breakout, Francis has also suited up for the Greenville Swamp Rabbits and Adirondack Thunder, further diversifying his on‑ice contributions. Across his ECHL career, he has skated in 192 games, while his AHL appearances total 27 games, spread across stints with Stockton, Laval and Ontario.
The Maine Mariners, an ECHL affiliate linked to the NHL's Boston Bruins and AHL's Providence Bruins, will look to Francis to add depth and scoring punch to their forward lines. His signing underscores the team's intent to blend youthful talent with seasoned professionalism as they prepare for the upcoming season.