The Kamloops Blazers have signed defenceman Ryan Michael to a standard WHL player agreement. Michael was selected by the Blazers in the third round, 62nd overall, of the 2020 WHL Bantam Draft in April.
“We are excited that Ryan and his family have committed to continue their development by playing in the WHL with the Kamloops Blazers,” club general manager Matt Bardsley said.
Michael played this past season with the Yale Hockey Academy under-15 team in Abbotsford. In 30 games, he had four goals and 21 assists.
“Our scouting staff considers him the modern-day defenceman,” Bardsley said. “His game continued to trend upwards offensively as the season progressed, while also providing a steady presence when defending. We feel he has all the skills necessary that will enable him to be a key contributor to our organization, while helping him reach his individual goals.”
Michael is expected to play with the Yale Hockey Academy under-18 team when play resumes.
Michael joins fellow third-round pick, forward Luke Korte, and first-round pick, defenceman Kaden Hammell, as the third prospect to sign from the 2020 draft.
