The Adirondack Thunder announced on Tuesday that they have re-signed forward Ryan Walker to a standard ECHL contract for the 2020-21 season. Walker is the fifth signing by the Thunder and the fourth forward locked up for the upcoming season. He will be returning for his third year in Glens Falls, New York. “I’m absolutely thrilled and excited to be back with the Thunder for my second full season,” Walker said about his signing via Facebook Live.
Surprise Signing By Adirondack?
The signing of Ryan Walker doesn’t exactly surprise me, but this early in the offseason, for a middle-six forward at best is a bit shocking in my opinion. Walker skated in 49 games for the Thunder, tallying eight goals and 11 assists for 19 points. He finished last season playing on the second line for Adirondack alongside captain James Henry and Conor Riley as both were coming off of injuries.
The Spotswood, NJ native spent his collegiate career at Union College where he racked up 32 goals and 36 assists for 68 points. He did so in 142 games, including double-digit goal totals in both his junior and senior years.
Heading into next season, I expect to see Walker have a breakout year if he can solidify his spot in the starting formation. In college, he showed that he’s got potential to both put up points and be a force offensively. I expect big things from the small 5’10 forward once the ECHL season gets underway when safe to.