Story Summary
Jokerit are reportedly set to strengthen their attack with Canadian forward Ryan McGregor. Esko Seppänen said the 27-year-old is moving to the Helsinki club on a contract running through the end of the season, with an announcement expected on Monday.
McGregor is expected to be in action for Wednesday’s Stadin derby, according to Seppänen. The 183cm forward can play at centre or on the wing.
The prospective signing follows a difficult start in the Czech top flight with Kladno, where McGregor recorded no points in six games. He had previously spent five seasons with the AHL’s Tucson Roadrunners, posting two goals and nine assists in 35 games last season.
Key Facts
- Esko Seppänen reported that Jokerit have agreed a contract with Ryan McGregor through the end of the season.
- McGregor is a 27-year-old Canadian forward who can play both centre and wing.
- Seppänen said Jokerit were expected to announce the move on Monday and that McGregor could play in Wednesday’s Stadin derby.
- McGregor recorded no points in six Czech top-flight games for Kladno this season.
- McGregor spent the previous five seasons with the Tucson Roadrunners and produced 11 points in 35 AHL games last season.
IHM Discussion
The available description of McGregor presents a mixed picture. Seppänen said a report from Europe questioned the forward’s skating, movement and speed, while crediting his hockey sense and reputation as a positive dressing-room presence. He was also described as bringing energy, commitment and a willingness to throw himself into daily work.
Those are reported assessments rather than confirmed measures of what McGregor will provide in Helsinki. His recent production offers a clearer statistical backdrop: 11 points in 35 AHL appearances last season, followed by a scoreless six-game spell at Kladno.
Why It Matters
A season-ending addition would give Jokerit another option across the middle and the wings at a point when the club is seeking more attacking depth. McGregor’s potential availability for the Stadin derby would make the timing immediately notable, although his participation remains an expectation rather than a confirmed line-up decision.
The proposed move also represents a quick change of setting for McGregor after six games in the Czech top flight. His ability to play more than one forward position could offer Jokerit flexibility, while his production and adaptation in Liiga would still need to be shown on the ice.
Mini Q&A
Who is Ryan McGregor?
Ryan McGregor is a 27-year-old Canadian forward who can play at centre or on the wing. He spent five previous seasons with Tucson in the AHL before joining Kladno in the Czech top flight this season.
Has McGregor’s move to Jokerit been confirmed?
No. Esko Seppänen reported that Jokerit had agreed a season-ending contract with McGregor and expected an announcement on Monday, but the move was not presented as officially confirmed.
What are McGregor’s recent statistics?
McGregor had two goals and nine assists in 35 AHL games for Tucson last season, and he has no points in six games for Kladno this season.