"Derek proved he belonged in the NHL last season," said Francis. "He brings skill and versatility to our lineup and sets an example for our younger players with his character and determination off the ice."
Ryan, 30, established NHL career highs in goals (11), assists (18) and points (29). The Spokane, WA, native led the Hurricanes in shooting percentage (14.1%, minimum 10 shots) and was tied for fourth on the team in power-play goals (4) and eighth in power-play points (8). Ryan was a finalist for the NHL's Bill Masterton Memorial Trophy, awarded annually to the player who best exemplifies qualities of perseverance, sportsmanship and dedication to the game.
Originally signed by the Hurricanes as a free agent in June 2015, Ryan has totaled 13 goals and 18 assists (31 points) in 73 career games with Carolina. Prior to signing his first NHL contract, he was the Most Valuable Player of the Swedish Hockey League (SHL) in 2014-15, tallying 60 points (15g, 45a) in 55 games for Orebro. Ryan has also played professionally in the American Hockey League (AHL) and Austria. Prior to beginning his professional career, he spent four seasons in the Western Hockey League (WHL) with Spokane, playing part of that time for current Hurricanes Head Coach Bill Peters, as well as for seasons of Canadian Interuniversity Sport (CIS) hockey at the University of Alberta.
