Ryan Lin, a 5‑foot‑11 right‑handed defenseman from Richmond, British Columbia, heard his name called during the recent NHL draft, marking a milestone for a player who grew up watching the game from the sidelines of his local rink.
A Draft Night to Remember
Lin spent three seasons with the Vancouver Giants of the Western Hockey League, where his defensive poise and offensive awareness earned him a reputation as a reliable blue‑liner.
Following the draft, he announced his commitment to Denver University, citing the school’s rigorous academics and the chance to compete in the National Collegiate Hockey Conference as key factors in his decision.
International Experience and Draft Connections
He also reflected on his experience representing Canada at the under‑18 World Junior Championships, describing the tournament as a crash course in international competition.
Lin noted that his draft journey was intertwined with that of fellow prospects Keaton Verhoeff and Colton Roberts, whose own paths to the professional ranks have been closely monitored by the Sharks’ scouting staff.
The defenseman also spoke about the team’s decision to trade up in the draft to secure his rights, a move he said validated the months of preparation he invested.
Choosing Denver and Future Aspirations
When asked why he chose Denver, Lin emphasized the challenge of adapting to a new environment and the opportunity to contribute to a program that regularly contends for national titles.
Off the ice, Lin’s mixed Japanese and Taiwanese heritage has become a point of pride, as he hopes to inspire more Asian athletes to pursue careers in hockey.
He also recounted how his box‑lacrosse background sharpened his stickhandling and spatial awareness, skills he believes translate directly to ice hockey.
Documentary Spotlight
Lin is currently featured in a documentary alongside singer Michael Bublé and entrepreneur Drew Scott, chronicling their brief ownership stint with the Vancouver Giants and the cultural impact of the team.
Looking ahead, Lin says he is focused on making an immediate impact at Denver while keeping his ultimate goal — earning a spot in the NHL — firmly in sight.