When he was drafted out of the Ontario Hockey League, Ryan Merkley was considered a highly-touted NHL prospect. To some Merkley was one of the most talented players in the draft, who fell due to off-ice issues. Now Merkley is leaving North America to continue his hockey career.
Merkley was drafted 21st overall in the 2018 NHL Draft by the San Jose Sharks. Merkley was expected to go much higher at one point, but a negative attitude and issues getting along with teammates in the locker room, led to him falling in the draft.
Merkley spent the remainder of the 2022-23 season with the Colorado Eagles of the AHL. Between the two teams, Merkley played 58 games in 2022-23, scoring 2 goals and 20 adding assists.