Sad story to report involving NHLer and former Masterton Trophy winner Bobby Ryan
Bobby Ryan was one of the NHL's most talked about players in 2019, when he took hold of his life and sought help for an addiction problem, eventually kicking his affliction and overcoming alcohol abuse during his time with the Ottawa Senators. The following season (2019-20), Ryan was awarded the Bill Masterton Trophy, which is awarded to "the NHL player who best exemplifies the qualities of perseverance, sportsmanship, and dedication to hockey".
Following his Masterton Trophy season, Ryan was waived and bought out by the Sens and signed a deal with the Detroit Red Wings for the 2020-21 season, though he was limited to just 33 games that season and tallied just 14 points.
A sad update on Ryan, who did not play in the NHL this past season, as he has been arrested and jailed in Nashville for shoplifting and public intoxication. According to a report from Scoop Nashville, Ryan stole several items from an airport store, abandoned the stolen items on a counter in another location and proceeded into an establishment called "Little Harpeth Brewing", where he was approached by police.
According to the report, Ryan did not follow the instructions of the officers and was unaware of the time, date or his location. As a result, he was placed under arrest and jailed for 8 hours before being released. The airport store has decided not to prosecute.
I hope this is another wakeup call for the former NHLer and that he can find the strength to get help once again. Addiction is not easy to overcome once, let alone twice. It's something that needs to be held in check. Our best thoughts and well wishes to Ryan during this difficult time. Hopefully he can get the help that he needs.
