Former 1st round pick leaves North America to play in China

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Josh Tupper
August 19, 2023 (10:29)

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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.

Yesterday it was announced that Merkley has signed on with the KHL's only team based in China, Kunlun Red Star.

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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.

The 23-year-old defender has spent more time in the AHL than the NHL since being drafted by the Sharks. Last year Merkley requested a trade before being granted when he was sent to the Colorado Avalanche with teammate Matt Nieto, in exchange for Martin Kaut and Jacob MacDonald.

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.

Kunlun Red Star is consistently among the worst teams in the KHL. Last year the posted a record of 21-40-3.

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AOUT 19 \| 167 ANSWERS Former 1st round pick leaves North America to play in China Have you ever been paid to play hockey?
Yes I have	32	19.2 %
No, I haven't	135	80.8 %
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Former 1st round pick leaves North America to play in China

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.

Have you ever been paid to play hockey?