Rookie John Ryan turned down long-term money from the NHL for a chance to play in the GHL and isn't
about to second guess his decision just because the economy is falling apart.
He turned down a multi-year offer from the NHL and is reported to have rejected a $101 million, nine-year offer
for what he felt was his best chance to play to his peak, in the GHL.
But then came the credit crunch, falling stock prices, rising unemployment and the very real chance that the GHL will have
fewer dollars to throw around for the next batch of unrestricted free agents in July.
"I know the economy is not great now, but no regrets," Ryan said Thursday on a conference call. "I came here to the
Grotte Hockey League for one reason and that was to win Rookie of the Year."
"We'll see at the end of the year if it was the right step, but for now, it's been a great experience - winning and playing
for a great league. That's what I was looking for."
The GHL has certainly gotten what it paid for.
After 8 games, the East Grand Forks native right-winger has 6 points, including 3 goals, 3 assists,
and is plus-0 in a league that is very tough to score in and get a win.
The feeling at the moment is that the GHL won't suffer greatly this season because more than 90 percent of season ticket
and sponsorship revenue has already been collected, and that the $53.7 million salary cap should stay close to the same for
2009-10, although it could drop the following season.
Then again, if anyone gets a big-dollar contract next July, chances are it will be Ryan, and perhaps Rookie forward
Dave Swatlowski.
"There are quite a few players that have to sign," said Ryan. "And it all depends on the cap, whether it goes down or stays
up.
"There are a few things to figure out."
There is always the chance that Ryan will stay in Grotteville, where commissioner Kelly Grotte has a knack
for convincing stars to take a little less than market value for the chance to play in the most coveted league in the country.
He has three key players eligible for free agency on July 3 - Ryan, Swanson, and Larson - and is expected
to be able to sign all three of them.
John is certainly enjoying his stay with ghl mates Zach Myron and Brent Larson, who have been quietly guiding
his young career, even in this economic crisis.
"So far it's been great," he said. "I know expectations are high, but that also raises your game.
"I try to raise my game to play with great players. It's fun."
It is the first stop in Ryan's GHL career, which began this year.
"The GHL has been one of the best leagues for many years," he said. "Nothing but the best is acceptable.
"It's been a great experience for me. I go into every game expecting to have an impact on the game.. It's a great
feeling."
