Ryan had a paradoxical relationship with Montreal. On one hand he was the first Newfoundlander to paly for the Habs (only in 1996), yet he was shafted by the team in a way that has made him resolute in his desire never to play for them again.

In his WHL days with Tri-City, Ryan suffered a concussion and serious post-concussion syndrome effects that went undetected. It wasn't until after he played three games with the Habs, when he was feeling ill, that doctors told him to take the rest of the year off. Not good news for a young player who had made a reputation as a fighter.

He came back and played just a few games over the next two years, but Montreal GM Rejean Houle told Ryan that he had NO chance of making the team. Nonetheless, the Habs gave him a qualifying contract offer to ensure that they kept his rights until he turned 31 in 2008, then stick him in the minors to rot.

Ryan eventually ended up in the West Coast League, playing well below his skill level, but unable to get back to the NHL.

He got plenty of ice time with Colorado, but when he moved on to Idaho he suffered a bad ankle injury that cost him another half-year of play.

His dream of being drafted by the Canadiens had now turned into a nightmare.

A Habs Fans Moment...