Ryan Lin is rapidly emerging as a top prospect for the 2026 NHL Entry Draft, drawing attention for his exceptional maturity and well-rounded skillset. The Vancouver Giants' defenseman has garnered significant praise, with many scouts and analysts already dubbing him one of the most polished players in his draft class.
Born on April 18, 2008, Lin, at 17 years old, already exhibits poise beyond his years on the ice. Listed at 5-foot-11 and 176 pounds, Lin's size might be a point of discussion, but his play quickly dispels any concerns. He is a top-pairing defenseman in the Western Hockey League (WHL).
Lin's defensive zone presence is a significant asset. Experts note his ability to shut down plays and go the extra mile, effectively defending the rush by blocking shots and gaining possession of the puck. Furthermore, he excels at winning puck battles and transitioning the play up the ice, showcasing his all-around capabilities.
Offensively, Lin is smooth and contributes significantly, evidenced by his impressive 53 points in 60 games. His hockey IQ, puck-moving skills, and defensive reads stand out, allowing him to steer the play with efficiency. He demonstrates comfort in various situations and is a valuable asset on special teams. Peter Baracchini of The Hockey Writers notes Lin’s knack for picking his spots to attack and his ability to handle the puck effectively in all zones, consistently creating opportunities for his teammates.
Lin's journey to becoming a top NHL prospect includes playing youth hockey with the Delta Hockey Academy (DHA) in the Canadian Sport School Hockey League (CSSHL). With the DHA U15 Prep Green team in 2022–23, he tallied 17 goals and 24 assists in 27 games. Drafted sixth overall by the Vancouver Giants in the 2023 WHL Prospects Draft, Lin continues to develop, gaining recognition for his achievements.
Internationally, Lin has represented Canada in several tournaments. He won a gold medal at the U17 World Hockey Challenge. He also played at the 2024 Winter Youth Olympics, where he was among the top defensemen in points. Additionally, Lin contributed to Canada's roster at the 2025 Hlinka Gretzky Cup.
Entering the 2025-26 WHL season, Lin is a projected top-15 pick in the 2026 NHL entry draft. Despite considering the NCAA route, he chose to remain with the Vancouver Giants. Prior to the season, he was named to the 2025 CHL USA Prospects Challenge.
Several scouting reports highlight Lin's key attributes. The Hockey News describes him as a "new-school D-man" who compensates for his lack of size with skating and skill. Scott Wheeler from The Athletic emphasizes Lin's high-level execution of all aspects of the game, noting his rare ability to control play with efficiency. Steven Ellis of the Daily Faceoff points out that Lin embodies the modern, skilled, puck-moving defenseman. Chris Peters from Flo Hockey anticipates an explosive season from Lin, expecting his point production and draft stock to rise.
As Ryan Lin continues his 2025-26 campaign with the Vancouver Giants, expectations are high. His combination of defensive prowess, offensive capabilities, and exceptional hockey sense position him as a standout player to watch in the lead-up to the 2026 NHL Entry Draft.
