Ryan Bednard, an ECHL all-star goalie, has joined the Nottingham Panthers for the 2024–25 campaign.
The 27-year-old, who was selected by the Florida Panthers in the seventh round of the 2015 NHL Draft as an 18-year-old, has an accomplished history in North America under his belt before joining the Panthers.
In March 2018, following three years of NCAA college at Bowling Green State University, Bednard signed a two-year entry-level NHL contract with Florida.
Since then, the American goalie has made frequent appearances in the AHL, most notably with the Grand Rapids Griffins in 2022–2023 and the Ontario Reign in the most recent season.
In addition, he has played with the Greenville Swamp Rabbits of the ECHL for four of the last five seasons, under the coaching of former Cardiff Devil Andrew Lord from 2020–21.
When Bednard shut out the Swamp Rabbits for the seventh time in his career last season, it set a franchise record in Greenville.
“It’s a good move for me,” stated Bednard. I believe my North American experience will be very applicable there.
“I’m ecstatic. It feels fantastic to finally commit to moving (out of North America), something I have been considering for the past year or two.
“I believe the Elite League has expanded significantly, and based on my contacts, more people are discussing it.
“We already have a strong squad together. The most crucial thing is to win, and I am excited to do so with the Panthers.
“I’ve spent a lot of time on YouTube, and the Panthers supporters are amazing. I’m excited since the building seems to have a lot of vitality.”
Danny Stewart, head coach of the Panthers, stated: “Ryan is a large and agile goalie. In all of his endeavors, he has achieved remarkable results.”He is an experienced player, and we think that every time he is in the net, he will give us a chance to win.”
Leave a Reply