Ryan Lindgren Bio
Ryan Lindgren is an American professional ice hockey defenseman born on February 11, 1998, in Minneapolis, Minnesota. He currently plays for the Seattle Kraken in the National Hockey League (NHL). Lindgren was drafted 49th overall in the second round of the 2016 NHL Entry Draft by the Boston Bruins and has played for the New York Rangers and Colorado Avalanche during his NHL career.
Early Life and Background
Ryan Lindgren was born and raised in Minneapolis, Minnesota, a city known for its strong hockey culture. Growing up in this environment, Lindgren developed a passion for ice hockey early on. His family has a hockey background, with his brother Charlie Lindgren also pursuing a professional career as a goaltender in the NHL. This familial connection to the sport helped foster Ryan’s development and commitment to hockey from a young age.
Path to Hockey
Lindgren’s path to professional hockey included playing at the junior and collegiate levels, where he honed his defensive skills. He was recognized for his physical style of play and defensive reliability, traits that made him an attractive prospect for NHL teams. His performance in junior competitions and international tournaments showcased his leadership and defensive capabilities, leading to his selection in the 2016 NHL Entry Draft.
Ryan Lindgren Career
Early Career (2018–2019)
After being drafted by the Boston Bruins in 2016, Lindgren was traded to the New York Rangers in February 2018 as part of a deal involving Rick Nash. He signed with the Rangers and joined their American Hockey League (AHL) affiliate, the Hartford Wolf Pack, in March 2018, foregoing the remainder of his collegiate career at the University of Minnesota. Lindgren spent the first half of the 2018–19 season developing in the AHL before making his NHL debut with the Rangers in January 2019, appearing in three games before returning to Hartford.
New York Rangers Breakthrough (2019–2025)
During his time with the New York Rangers, Lindgren established himself as a dependable defensive defenseman known for his physical play and shot-blocking ability. He signed a three-year contract extension with the Rangers in May 2021. The 2022–23 season marked a career-high in assists and points for Lindgren, as well as a team-leading plus-29 rating. His defensive contributions included blocking 91 shots and significant short-handed ice time. In recognition of his leadership and impact, Lindgren received the 2023 Steven McDonald Extra Effort Award, an honor voted on by fans for players who demonstrate exceptional dedication on and off the ice. In July 2024, he signed a one-year contract extension with the Rangers to avoid salary arbitration.
Colorado Avalanche Era (2025)
On March 1, 2025, Lindgren was traded to the Colorado Avalanche as part of a multi-player deal. His time with the Avalanche was brief but marked a new chapter in his NHL career, contributing his defensive skills to a team with strong championship aspirations.
Seattle Kraken Era (2025–Present)
Following the conclusion of his contract with the Avalanche, Lindgren signed a four-year, $18 million contract with the Seattle Kraken on July 1, 2025. This move signaled the Kraken’s commitment to bolstering their defensive lineup with a player known for his physicality and reliability. Lindgren’s arrival is expected to strengthen the team’s defensive core as they aim to improve their competitiveness in the NHL.
Playing Style and Strengths
Ryan Lindgren is recognized as a defensive defenseman who plays with physicality and discipline. His strengths include shot-blocking, penalty killing, and maintaining a strong presence in front of the net. Lindgren’s ability to read the game and make smart defensive plays makes him a valuable asset to his teams. His work ethic and leadership qualities have earned him respect in the locker room and among fans.
Notable Events and Milestones
Lindgren’s career highlights include his NHL debut with the New York Rangers, his career-high assist game in November 2022, and receiving the Steven McDonald Extra Effort Award in 2023. His trade to the Colorado Avalanche and subsequent signing with the Seattle Kraken represent significant milestones as he continues to develop his professional career.
Ryan Lindgren Career Wins
Throughout his NHL career, Ryan Lindgren has been known more for his defensive contributions than scoring. While specific win totals are not highlighted, his consistent presence on the ice and role in team defense have contributed to his teams’ successes over multiple seasons.
New York Rangers Highlights
Lindgren’s tenure with the New York Rangers was marked by steady development and increasing responsibility. He achieved personal bests in assists and points during the 2022–23 season and was recognized for his leadership and dedication with a fan-voted award. His defensive reliability was a key component of the Rangers’ blue line during his time with the team.
Other Wins & Performances
Internationally, Lindgren has represented the United States in various junior tournaments, serving as captain and alternate captain in multiple events. He contributed to the U.S. team’s bronze and gold medal performances at the World Junior Championships, showcasing his leadership and defensive skills on the international stage.
Ryan Lindgren Family
Family Background and Hockey Lineage
Ryan Lindgren comes from a hockey-oriented family. His brother, Charlie Lindgren, is a professional NHL goaltender currently with the Washington Capitals. This family connection to professional hockey has influenced Ryan’s development and passion for the sport.
Personal Life
Details about Ryan Lindgren’s personal life, including marital status and residence, are not publicly disclosed. He maintains a professional focus on his hockey career.
2025 Season Performance
The 2025 season marks a new phase in Ryan Lindgren’s career as he joins the Seattle Kraken on a four-year contract. His signing is expected to enhance the Kraken’s defensive capabilities. Lindgren brings experience from his time with the Rangers and Avalanche, and his physical style of play aligns with the team’s strategic goals. The season outlook is positive, with expectations that Lindgren will be a key contributor to the Kraken’s defensive efforts and overall team success.