Kunlun Red Star agreed to terms on 1-year contract with D Ryan Merkley
Oakville, ON native, Merkley (2000, 6'0", 185 lbs) has 39 games for @SanJoseSharks in NHL
Merkley is Hlinka Memorial champion with @HockeyCanada and 21st overall pick in 2018 #NHLDraft
Merkley was originally drafted for his offensive capabilities and developed well in the OHL but never adjusted to the pro game. He only has six points in his 39 career NHL games.
He was traded last year from the Sharks to the Avalanche but never played a game for the Avalanche spending his time with the Colorado Eagles.
He will be looking to show his offensive upside as the number one defenseman in Kunlun and potentially show that he is worthy of making the NHL.