The best defensive centre of his generation — Selke Trophy winner and Vancouver's backbone.
Ryan Kesler was born in Livonia, Michigan in 1984. Vancouver Canucks selected him 23rd overall in the 2003 NHL Draft. His 15-season career produced 277 goals and 352 assists for 629 career points. He won the Selke Trophy as the NHL's best defensive forward in 2011 — the same year Vancouver reached the Stanley Cup Finals, losing to Boston in seven games. He was selected to three All-Star games. He scored 41 goals in 2010-11 — the same season he won the Selke. He represented the USA at the 2010 Olympics, winning silver. He was the Vancouver Canucks' most important defensive player for a decade — his ability to neutralise opposing teams' top centres, kill penalties and contribute offensively made him one of the most complete forwards of his era. Hip injuries progressively limited his effectiveness from 2016 onwards, forcing his retirement in 2019.
Selke Trophy (2011)
Career Honours
- Selke Trophy (2011)
- All-Star 3x
- Olympic Gold Medal (USA 2010 silver)