Detroit Red Wings forward Bobby Ryan has paid off so far during his first three games in Hockeytown.
He’s tied for the NHL lead in goals scored with four and is looking every bit like the offensive power he was known for earlier in his career.
Head coach Jeff Blashill joined NHL Network to discuss Ryan’s performance so far and immediately gave him props for setting a franchise record.
“I think first off when you hear ‘first anything’ in our franchise history in anything, it’s pretty awesome. It’s a great start for him.”
Of course, Blashill is referring to Ryan accomplishing a featthat no other player in Red Wings history had done before – scoring four goals in his first three games while wearing the Winged Wheel.
But beyond his presence on the scoresheet, Blashill values Ryan’s character.
“What’s impressed me most is who he is as a person,” Blashill said. “I knew Bobby a little bit prior to getting him on the phone this summer, and when I talked to him this summer, I talked to Steve Yzerman after I spoke to Bobby and before we signed him.
I told Steve, ‘Regardless of if he signs with us or not, I’m really happy for Bobby, he’s in a great spot.'”
“He’s got such great hands around the net, such ability to score goals. I think he’s really gotten himself into great shape…he’s playing at a high level, and how he handles himself in the locker room is so impressive.”
Watch Blashill’s full remarks below:
– – Quotes via NHL Network Link – –
