In the sixth round of the 2023 NHL Entry Draft, with the 172nd overall pick, the Philadelphia Flyers chose a C from the Leamington Flyers, Ryan MacPherson.
Last season, with the ‘A’ stitched on his sweater, MacPherson scored 61 points (25G, 36A) in 49GP with Leamington in the GOJHL. In the postseason, MacPherson kept his pace, totaling 38 points (14G, 24A) in 24GP as Leamington defeated the Stratford Warriors in seven games to win the Sutherland Cup.
Ryan finished second in team scoring. Ironically, his twin brother, Connor, took the top spot by two points. Both appeared at the 2023 Flyers Development Camp. In the Team Clarke versus Team Lindros scrimmage, Ryan and Connor opposed each other. On Team Lindros, Ryan owned bragging rights in a sibling rivalry curated at the development camp.
Next season, MacPherson will play for the Penticton Vees in the BCHL. He is committed to the University of New Hampshire in 2024-2025.
MacPherson was ranked 211th according to the NHL Central Scouting report of North American skaters. Standing at 6′ and weighing 176lbs, MacPherson plays a similar game to Noah Cates. A strong two-way player, MacPherson can also produce on offense. A particular thing doesn’t stand out about his game because he is simply well-rounded.
Rick Pracey, an amateur scout for the Flyers, saw MacPherson play often with Leamington. High on MacPherson, Pracey influenced his selection.
“He’s obviously got a little bit longer path going to Penticton next year and then to college. Real good motor; Pracey compares him a little bit to Noah Cates as far as the compete, and the way he plays, a two-way game.”
Brent Flahr; 6/29/2023
Taking swings on high-upside players was the goal during the first draft for Daniel Briere. Time is on the Flyers’ side, but the payoff requires patience and development.
(AP Photo/George Walker IV)
