Ryker Evans Bio
Ryker Garth Evans is a Canadian professional ice hockey player who is a defenceman for the Seattle Kraken of the National Hockey League (NHL). He was selected with the 35th overall pick by the Kraken in the 2021 NHL Entry Draft. He previously played with the Regina Pats of the Western Hockey League (WHL).
Early Life and Background
Ryker Evans was born on December 13, 2001, in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. Growing up in a city known for its passion for hockey, Evans was exposed to the sport at a young age. His early experiences in local leagues and youth hockey laid the foundation for his future career. Evans played with the Notre Dame Hounds of the Saskatchewan Male U18 AAA Hockey League, where he showcased his skills and determination. In 2018, he won a gold medal and was named the tournament’s top defenceman while competing for the Telus Cup. This achievement marked a significant milestone in his early hockey career.
Path to Hockey
Ryker Evans was selected by the Regina Pats of the Western Hockey League (WHL) in the tenth round, 209th overall, in the 2016 WHL bantam draft. He made his debut in the 2018–19 season, playing 45 games and recording one goal and 10 assists for a total of 11 points. His performance earned him recognition, and he was named assistant captain of the Pats in the 2020–21 season. In the following season, he registered 15 goals and 47 assists in 63 games, further establishing himself as a key player for the team. His impressive performance in the WHL caught the attention of NHL scouts, leading to his selection as the 35th overall pick by the Seattle Kraken in the 2021 NHL Entry Draft. This marked the beginning of his professional journey in the NHL.
Ryker Evans Career
Early Career (2022-Present)
On April 22, 2022, Ryker Evans signed a three-year, entry-level contract with the Seattle Kraken. Shortly after, he signed an amateur tryout contract with the Charlotte Checkers, the Kraken’s American Hockey League (AHL) affiliate. During his time with the Checkers, he contributed significantly to the team’s success in the Calder Cup playoffs. After attending the Kraken’s 2022 training camp, Evans was reassigned to the Coachella Valley Firebirds, the Kraken’s new AHL affiliate. He quickly made an impact, leading the league among rookie defensemen in points and earning a selection to the AHL All-Star Game. His performance during the 2023 Calder Cup playoffs was notable, as he helped the Firebirds reach the Calder Cup Final, ultimately losing in game seven to the Hershey Bears while managing 26 points in 26 games.
Breakthrough (2023-Present)
Ryker Evans made his NHL debut with the Seattle Kraken on December 7, 2023, in a closely contested 2–1 loss against the New Jersey Devils. In this game, he was placed on a line with veteran defenseman Brian Dumoulin, showcasing his readiness for the NHL. Just five days later, on December 12, he recorded his first NHL point with an assist in a 4–0 victory against the Florida Panthers. Evans scored his first NHL goal on March 22, 2024, during a 2–1 overtime loss to the Arizona Coyotes, marking a significant achievement in his early career. On August 11, 2025, he signed a two-year contract extension with the Kraken, valued at an average annual value of $2.05 million, solidifying his position within the team.
Notable Works and Milestones
Ryker Evans has quickly established himself as a promising talent in the NHL. His signature work includes his contributions during the Calder Cup playoffs and his rapid ascent to the NHL, highlighted by his debut and scoring milestones.
Ryker Evans Award Nominations
Throughout his career, Ryker Evans has been recognized for his contributions on the ice, particularly during his time in junior hockey and the AHL.
Ryker Evans Awards Won
While specific awards won during his career are not detailed, Ryker Evans has achieved notable milestones, including being named the tournament’s top defenceman at the Telus Cup and leading rookie defensemen in points during his time in the AHL.
Ryker Evans Family
Information regarding Ryker Evans’s family is not publicly available.
Personal Life
In fourth grade, Ryker Evans was diagnosed with celiac disease, which causes a reaction in the small intestine to eating gluten. This condition has influenced his dietary choices and lifestyle as he pursues his professional hockey career.
