Ryan Johansen Announces Retirement After 14-Season NHL Career
Nashville Predators veteran Ryan Johansen has announced his retirement from the National Hockey League after a 14-season career, culminating in 905 career games. The 33-year-old forward expressed his desire to have his infant son, 4-month-old Grayson, present for his retirement appreciation night with the Predators on March 28th against the Montreal Canadiens at Bridgestone Arena. NHL.com reported the news on March 20, 2026.
A Career Defined by Perseverance and Playmaking
Johansen, originally drafted fourth overall in the 2010 NHL Entry Draft by the Columbus Blue Jackets, quickly established himself as a key player for the franchise. Known for his strong vision and playmaking abilities, he recorded his first 30-goal season in 2013-14. Sports Illustrated highlighted his early success and consistent performance.
Key Moments and Teams
Traded to the Nashville Predators in January 2016, Johansen arguably made his biggest impact, becoming a vital component of the team’s run to the 2017 Stanley Cup Final. Despite a leg injury during the Western Conference Finals that sidelined him for the Cup Final, he consistently contributed both offensively and defensively throughout his time in Nashville. He accumulated 578 points (202 goals, 376 assists) across his career with the Predators, Blue Jackets, and Colorado Avalanche.
Recent Seasons and Retirement Decision
Johansen’s last NHL game was on March 4, 2024, while playing for the Colorado Avalanche against the Chicago Blackhawks. He was subsequently traded to the Philadelphia Flyers but never played for the team due to a hip injury. The trade to Colorado in June 2023 ultimately solidified his decision to retire and remain in Nashville. He is sixth all-time in points scored in Predators history.
A Family Moment
“I wanted my boy to be there and to have that moment,” Johansen told the Preds Official Podcast. He expressed a desire to share the experience with his son, something he hadn’t been able to do throughout his career. NHL.com detailed his emotional reasoning behind wanting his son present at the ceremony.
Early Career and International Play
Prior to his NHL career, Johansen played minor hockey in the Greater Vancouver area and then joined the Penticton Vees of the British Columbia Hockey League (BCHL). He later moved to the major junior level with the Portland Winterhawks of the Western Hockey League (WHL). Internationally, he represented Canada at the 2011 World Junior Championships, earning a silver medal and being named to the Tournament All-Star Team. Wikipedia provides details on his early career and international play.