Veteran defenseman Ryan Gagnon is taking his game overseas, signing with Gap of France’s Ligue Magnus for the 2025–26 season. Known for his defensive talent, reliability and leadership, Gagnon brings a decade of experience across the WHL, USports, and ECHL to his first European contract.
The 28-year-old split the 2024–25 campaign between the Allen Americans and Idaho Steelheads, appearing in 64 games and tallying 2 goals, seven total points, and 58 penalty minutes. He was acquired by Idaho from Allen on January 22, 2025, bringing depth and experience to the Steelheads’ blue line for the second half of the season. With Idaho, he posted two goals and four points in 27 games. Before the trade, he suited up in 37 games for Allen, recording three assists.
Across four seasons with Allen, Gagnon totaled 158 regular season games, registering four goals and 20 points, along with 174 penalty minutes. His best season came in 2022–23, when he played 72 games, recorded nine points, and followed up with six points in 11 playoff appearances, helping drive Allen’s postseason push. Known more for his defensive coverage, Gagnon remained a trusted presence in key defensive situations.
Development Years: WHL to USports
Prior to joining the professional ranks, Gagnon spent five seasons at the University of Calgary, where he served as team captain and emerged as a reliable two-way defender. He recorded eight goals and 32 assists for 40 points in 99 games, adding six points in 19 playoff appearances. He was a steadying presence in the locker room and embraced leadership responsibilities throughout his collegiate career.
Gagnon’s hockey foundation was built in the Western Hockey League with the Victoria Royals, where he logged 320 regular season games from 2012 to 2017. Known for his physical style and shot-blocking grit, he finished with 67 points (10G, 57A) and 351 penalty minutes over six seasons. He was named an alternate captain in 2015–16 and served as the Royals’ captain in 2016–17, a testament to the respect he commanded within the organization. He also appeared in 38 playoff games, continuing his defensive responsibilities under pressure.
Now heading to France, Gagnon brings his trademark grit, veteran leadership, and steady play to a Gap squad looking to bolster its defensive core. With hundreds of games under his belt and a career built on accountability, Gagnon is poised to make a strong impact in his European debut.
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