The Checkers’ captain is remaining with the organization, as Derek Ryan has inked a one-year, two-way contract with Carolina.
Ryan, 29, led the Checkers in scoring with 55 points last season, his first as a pro in North America, as well as pacing the team with 23 goals. The center also led Charlotte in game-winning goals, tied for the team lead in power-play goals and ranked second in power-play points.
Named the fourth team captain in franchise history prior to the 2015-16 home opener, Ryan spent the majority of his campaign with the Checkers before appearing in six games late in the season with the Hurricanes, including scoring his first NHL goal in his NHL debut on March 1.
Prior to coming to North America last season, the Spokane, WA, native spent four seasons playing in Europe, including an MVP campaign with Orebro of the Swedish Hockey League in 2014-15.
The nature of his two-way deal means that Ryan could be in Charlotte next season, which would give the Checkers their most dangerous player back, though his strong play during his brief NHL stint could make Ryan a candidate to make the Hurricanes out of camp.
