Latest news with #AdamNightingale
New York Times
20 hours ago
- Sport
- New York Times
How a ‘metamorphosis' turned Ryker Lee into one of the NHL's most gifted prospects
MINNEAPOLIS — One of the first times Adam Nightingale went to watch Ryker Lee, he was 'a wee little' 14-year-old, his stick was spray-painted black and he 'was doing all these stickhandling moves.' Nightingale took to calling him 'The Wizard.' A few years later, the nickname has stuck. He's also now a first-round pick of the Nashville Predators and a big part of a sterling freshman class for Nightingale's Michigan State program, joining the Spartans with fellow first-rounders Cayden Lindstrom and Porter Martone and second-rounder Eric Nilson. Advertisement This week, all four of them are in Minneapolis at Ridder Arena playing games in the World Junior Summer Showcase. In the tournament's opening game between USA White and Finland, he picked up two goals and an assist. He opened the scoring on a pretty give-and-go with Bruins first-rounder James Hagens, added a second to make it 4-2 early in the third period and then passed up the hat trick to find fellow Predators prospect Teddy Stiga for the empty-netter. In Monday's second game against Sweden, he had and created several more looks and was moved from the second power play to the first. To get here, Lee has undergone what his old Shattuck St. Mary's coach Tom Ward calls 'an absolute metamorphosis in his world and his life over the last five years because of his growth.' Four years ago, when Lee arrived at Shattuck for his bantam year, he was 5-foot-3 and Ward said 'like 68 pounds.' Bruins prospect Will Zellers, one of his teammates on that Shattuck team, guessed that he was 'like 5-foot and maybe 95 pounds' when he first met him. 'He was a bone rack,' Ward said. 'Oh man, he was a little guy.' When he started his U16 season at Shattuck three years ago, he was still just 5-foot-6. He was 5-foot-7 when he committed to Michigan State. In his U18 year at Shattuck under Ward, he registered 45 goals and 99 points in 57 games (second on a loaded team of future NHL picks as a young 2006 playing mostly with 2005s), and another two points in two games with the USHL's Madison Capitols at season's end, earning him a spot on Team USA at the Hlinka Gretzky Cup, where he registered one point in five games. That was enough to earn him a 'B' rating on NHL Central Scouting's preliminary players to watch list, which 'indicates a 2nd/3rd round candidate.' Advertisement At the start of his draft year, he'd shot up to 5-foot-11.5. He then won the USHL's Rookie of the Year Award, scoring 31 goals and 68 points in 58 games with the Capitols, both fourth in the league. He led Madison in goals and points by nine apiece and registered another six points in six playoff games, also tops on the team. At the midseason mark, he was named Player of the Game at the 2025 Chipotle All-American Game, scoring the game-winner in a 3-2 win with 4:54 left. At the NHL Scouting Combine in Buffalo, they measured him at 6-foot-0.25 and 185 pounds. 'I think in the last 24 to 36 months he has grown like 8-10 inches,' Ward said. Through it — one growth spurt after another — he climbed the ranks, rising to No. 40 on NHL Central Scouting's midterm ranking of North American skaters and then again to No. 28 on their final list. The Predators called his name with the 26th pick. Despite the newfound height, he's still got the wizardry he had to learn as a little guy, too. Capitols head coach and general manager Andy Brandt says Lee's stick skills are 'at a different level.' 'Stick. Brain. Off the charts,' Michigan State associate head coach Jared DeMichiel said earlier this year. 'What can I say? That kid is one of the most skilled offensive players with the puck on his stick,' Zellers said Sunday night. 'The things he does and tries in games, and pulls them off successful, I've never seen anything like it. He is one of a kind. And that guy's got a good goal-scoring touch too. He's a special player. And he has grown and still kept that hand-eye and that skill in his toolbox. I mean, it's pretty special. The sky's the limit for that type of player like him.' Now Lee is trying to show that he's more than just his hands. The two most common things scouts have talked about when they've talked about Lee over the last couple of years are, first, his hands and second, that his skating needed to improve. When he arrived at Shattuck, Ward said he was a little heavy-footed and 'kind of a thumper.' 'You could feel him coming behind you,' Ward said. Advertisement Part of that was the constant growing and the reality that things hadn't fallen into place for him yet. In Madison, Brandt set him up with their skating coach, Amy Claggett. Claggett would skate with the team once a week, and Lee another time. They worked on lengthening his stride to match his longer legs, his efficiency with his arm movement and also moving his feet more and the puck quicker — and trusting that he'd get it back. Lee said he enjoyed picking her brain about things that he could take into practice. Once the growth spurts slowed and three inches a year turned to one inch a year, his skating really started to come, and the results showed. In the agility testing for the prospects at the Chipotle All-American Game, he ranked near the top. 'It was something that he worked on, that he was mindful of, and it's something that he's continuing to grow into,' Brandt said of Lee's skating. 'He has continued to adapt to his growth while continuing to work on his skating. Just in a year, his foot speed improved noticeably.' Last season, he also worked hard with Madison's strength and conditioning coach Jason Johnson. Together, they didn't just maintain his weight in season (usually the goal), but actually managed to add five pounds. The coaching staff at MSU noticed it right away (that he was thicker in the shoulders and filling out) when he arrived on campus following Predators development camp earlier this summer. The results showed in the testing at the NHL Scouting Combine, too. He finished first in vertical jump (with a standing vertical jump of 25.67 inches), 13th in the no arm vertical jump, 10th in left-hand grip (151 pounds) and tied for 14th in pullups with 12. 'I get his skating needs to come, but look out,' DeMichiel said. 'I don't think he's done growing either. Unreal kid, too. Great energy to him. He adores the game.' Advertisement He has also always been 'a competitive little guy,' according to Ward, which has helped him mitigate against his size and skating at different points in his career. Ward said that Shattuck actually got lucky that he was as small as he was because the players who have his skill and also more physical stature at an early age have 'everybody in the world wanting them.' 'It was a blessing that he started out as a little guy. And now that he's moving on out into the big, real hockey world, he has been blessed again, and he has had a growth spurt. Because he's not afraid of the gym,' Wars said. 'He's a strong kid, a farmer strong kid. He's wiry strong. He can hold his own, and he can hang. He's a good athlete. He's got good explosiveness. And he's losing his heavy feet. Now that he's getting stronger in his legs and his core, he can lift them up, and set them down, and get back, and cut and stop and start.' Because of that development, Ward said Nightingale and his staff are now the lucky ones. '(Nightingale) has got a good player. And he's a wonderful kid. He gets it. Like the tortoise does win the race and he has just had to stick with it,' Ward said. 'He's just a rink rat, throwback kind of kid. If he could be up at the rink all day long, whether it's on the ice or just in the dressing room, or training, or laughing, or just shooting the breeze with his buddies, he would be. He's just a rat, and in the greatest, most affectionate, most competitive way. (He's) a really good teammate, and he plays his ass off, and he has finally grown. And I'm so happy for him because he is a completely different person.' The Predators will be the next lucky ones. 'I was telling all of the guys from the (NHL) when they were calling and asking questions about him, if you don't take him when you have the chance to take him, you're going to be kicking yourself in four or five years because this kid's going to be ripping it up,' Ward said. Advertisement In that way, Ward thinks Lee's metamorphosis actually helped his development 'because it's almost a curse if you're a young kid and you're already the fastest skater or the biggest kid and you don't develop things in your game that are nuanced-based that are in your brain and your soul.' 'He came into his love of the game as a little guy and learned how to manipulate his way through the trees,' Ward said. 'And now he's a good, big average-sized kid, and he can handle his own, and I'm sure he's loving being on the other side of a few checks here.' Ask Brandt and Ward what they'll remember most about coaching Lee, and they both start with how much fun it was and how hardworking he was. 'Right from when Ryker stepped onto the ice, we knew his approach every day,' Ward said. 'We do skills every day, and when he gets on the ice and it's his turn, he takes every rep serious. He can also challenge players in one-on-one situations or small-area games, but he makes it fun. He's got a contagious attitude that he brings to the rink, and it's one of work ethic, but also one that he truly enjoys doing what he does.' But they always come back to his hands. For Brandt, it's the way he does it all with his head up. And he said Lee's edges while handling don't get talked about enough, either. 'He can cut on a dime and use his body and torque his body in different ways,' Brandt said. 'He can still skate, he can still make a play, all while having the puck on a string. And as a defender, that's hard because if you make a wrong read, it's a dangerous thing when he's got his head up. And then he also loves to shoot it, so as a goaltender, you're never sure if he's going to pass or shoot it, and his deceptiveness adds to his stick skills.' For Ward, it's the absurdity of the way he always finds his way in and out of the tightest cracks in coverage. Even on a team with guys such as Zellers, the reigning USHL Player of the Year, and Aidan Park, a draft pick of the Oilers known for his hands, it was Lee who was 'The Wizard.' Advertisement 'You could put three of us, four of us, in a phone booth and we'd never touch the puck,' Ward said. 'He's got that ability. And he can wire it, too. Like he can shoot it and he's not afraid to score. He's not one of these guys that is just enamored with stickhandling. He's just as enamored with scoring.' Ask Lee where his hands come from, and he says it's twofold. They were honed with hard work in his basement, but they were also a necessity of his reality as a smaller player. 'I had to learn how to be smarter and put myself in good positions,' Lee said. With his new size, he's learning to use his body more as well. Between development camp with the Preds and the World Junior Summer Showcase, he has also been in East Lansing working out with Michigan State's strength and conditioning coach Will Morlock, who he said was one of the main reasons he and others are now choosing the Spartans. 'I've been working with him ever since I got on campus, and the workouts have been hard, but that's exactly what I need, and he kind of caters everything to what you need specifically,' Lee said. After a strong start at the World Junior Summer Showcase, he's excited to continue to show USA Hockey the progress he has made this fall — and that he's more than just his hands — with his sights set on making the team in December. 'Obviously, I have an offensive game and I can bring offense to this team, but I also want to prove that I can outwork opponents and play in all situations for them,' he said. (Photo of Ryker Lee: Madison Capitols / Rosenau Photography)
The Sun
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- The Sun
MAFS UK stars sneak off on intimate weekend away at romantic hotel – despite NOT being close on the show
THEY barely exchanged more than a side-eye on screen - but it looks like sparks are finally flying off-camera. MAFS UK stars have shocked fans by sneaking off for a cosy weekend getaway at a romantic hotel - despite showing zero chemistry during their time on the show. 6 6 Kristina and Adam Nightingale were spotted getting cosy and laughing together at a plush countryside retreat. The pair, who barely looked each other's way during their MAFS journey, seemed to have turned over a new leaf as they enjoyed scenic walks and brunches together. Adam even pulled out a surprise gift for her - a beaded necklace he made himself. Kristina was left gobsmacked, welling up as she hugged Adam and proudly showed it off to the camera. Taking to Instagram to share the sweet moment with her followers, the reality star posted a video of her reaction, as Adam explained: 'It kinda matches mine but more female.' Kristina squealed: 'Oh my god. Oh my god. I'm obsessed. Thank you! I love that!' Beaming, she gave fans a closer look, holding the necklace up and grinning: 'It's so pretty! I got a present!' It looks like MAFS might have worked for the pair after all. Kristina, a bubbly dancer from Leicester, was originally paired with cheeky chappy Kieran during the experiment - but the spark soon fizzled fast, and things turned frosty by the halfway mark. Viewers watched as Kristina held her head high through the awkward dinner parties and tense commitment ceremonies, often tearing up as she questioned whether she'd ever find her perfect match. Heartbreaking moment MAFS' Kristina breaks down in hysterical tears after shock twist from experts on marriage to Kieran Meanwhile, Adam, who was coupled up with Polly, had his fair share of emotional blow-ups. Their rollercoaster romance saw fiery clashes, miscommunication, and more than a few tearful confessionals. Adam's flirty behaviour towards another bride Amy, created arguments between them, and they eventually called it quits. Now, months after filming wrapped, it looks like something genuine might finally be blooming between them. Mafs couples that have stood the test of time Loved-up Tayah Victoria and Adam Aveling of series six fame had the first Mafs baby. The pair couldn't keep their hands off each other on the programme and quickly found their feet in the outside world, moving into Adam's Doncaster home. Just 18 months after meeting, the couple welcomed their daughter Beau. Season five couple Michelle Walder and Owen Jenkins also managed to make their marriage work away from the cameras and had their first child in December. Teacher Michelle, 29, has no regrets about taking part in the experiment. She told us: 'I just feel very lucky and thankful that it has worked out - and excited for everything to come.' Michelle and Owen were both sick of dating apps when they applied in 2019. Owen recalled: 'I had been out for some drinks with a friend after work. "While he was out for a cigarette I was scrolling on Instagram waiting for him to come back in. 'The MAFS advert was the last thing I saw, and I joked, 'Wouldn't it be funny if I signed up?' 'A few beers later when I was back at home I sent in the application, and the rest is history.' Another couple to make Mafs UK history is Zoe Clifton and Jenna Robinson. Despite a slight rocky start, where they clashed over Jenna's vegan lifestyle, the show's first same sex pairing are still going strong. They even have a successful podcast together called Life With a Pod. Jenna shed light on being involved in the show earlier this year when she told us: "We're not legally married, and I never felt like we were. I definitely feel the process makes you take the relationship a lot more seriously and having the help of the experts… if you can survive that process it sets a firm foundation for a long-lasting relationship." While their original matches didn't quite work out, eagle-eyed fans couldn't help noticing Kristina and Adam's growing friendship behind the scenes. And judging by their romantic hotel getaway and that handmade necklace - it's giving major second-chance love vibes. The first bride of Married At First Sight's 2025 instalment has been revealed - and she's been hailed one of "the most stunning" yet. The Sun reported how dental nurse Leisha Lightbody is first to sign up for the E4 series. Leisha juggles her role as dental practice manager with marketing and social media roles, often showcasing her lavish getaways and glam lifestyle on Instagram and TikTok. Yet the brunette will soon be switching vacations for vows during Married At First Sight filming, which will see her say I Do to a complete stranger. A source was first to tell us: "Leisha is one of the most stunning brides MAFS UK has ever had, and she's sure to catch the eye of all the grooms on the new series - not just her own." MAFS has also cast a super-glam blonde business consultant for its new series. Leah Tyrer is set to be one of the brides for the upcoming show, which was shot earlier this year and will air in the autumn. A source told The Sun: 'Leah is sure to be one of the most talked about brides this year. "She's a fun party girl and regularly shows off her toned body in bikini snaps from her luxury holidays on social media. "She's also pals with several ITV soap stars. Former Emmerdale star Charley Webb regularly comments on her snaps and has branded her 'prettiest' on one picture. "She also counts former Corrie stars Helen Flanagan and Kimberly Hart-Simpson amongst her followers, so she's already well-connected before she's even made her TV debut.' 6 6 6
USA Today
08-07-2025
- Sport
- USA Today
What's next for Michigan State hockey's roster after missing on Gavin McKenna
Michigan State hockey is gearing up to finalize their roster ahead of the 2025-26 season, Adam Nightingale's fourth season at the helm in East Lansing. While Michigan State was going all in to win the Gavin McKenna sweepstakes, it appears that a massive NIL offer from Penn State is going to win out for the Nittany Lions. Now, that leaves Michigan State with one last roster spot that they still can fill. So what's next? The Spartans should be putting all of their eggs from the McKenna basket, into the Porter Martone basket. Martone, a 6-foot-3 and 205 pound power forward from Peterborough, Ontario, Canada, has been a star with the Brampton Steelheads in the OHL. He was selected with the No. 6 overall pick in the 2025 NHL Entry Draft by the Philadelphia Flyers. One of the best prospects in the world, Martone is still deciding whether or not he is going to play college or turn professional, but a lot of people in the hockey world believe that he is going to spend a year playing college hockey. If he does, Michigan State needs to do everything they can to land top prospect. Contact/Follow us @The SpartansWire on X (formerly Twitter) and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Michigan State news, notes and opinion. You can also follow Cory Linsner on X @Cory_Linsner
USA Today
24-06-2025
- Sport
- USA Today
Michigan State hockey alum Duncan Keith inducted into Hockey Hall of Fame's 2025 class
Michigan State hockey is on the rise, with Adam Nightingale making the program one of the nation's best, once again. On Tuesday, the program received another feather in it's cap, coming from the past. Former Spartan defenseman Duncan Keith has been inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame a a member of the 2025 class. Keith, a member of the Michigan State program from 2001-to-2003, had a lengthy NHL career. A 17 year NHL career that consisted of time with the Chicago Blackhawks and Edmonton Oilers, Keith played in 1,256 games, scoring 106 goals and 540 assists. Additionally, Keith won three Stanley Cups with the Blackhawks, while also winning two gold medals with Canada in the Olympics. He played in 151 career playoff games. Other critical accolades along Keith's career include being the 2015 recipient of the Conn Smythe Award, while also being a two time Norris Trophy winner and a four time all star. Keith will be a member of the class, alongside Zdeno Chara, Joe Thornton, Alexander Mogilny, Jack Parker, Brianna Decker, Jennifer Botterill and Danièle Sauvageau. Contact/Follow us @The SpartansWire on X (formerly Twitter) and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Michigan State news, notes and opinion. You can also follow Cory Linsner on X @Cory_Linsner
USA Today
24-06-2025
- Sport
- USA Today
Michigan State to face USA Hockey NTDP in exhibition game this season
Michigan State will continue its annual tradition of playing an exhibition game against the future stars of hockey this upcoming season. The USA Hockey's National Team Development Program Under 18 squad released its schedule for the upcoming 2025-26 season, which includes a trip to Munn Ice Arena in January. Michigan State will host the USNTDP on January 4, 2026 -- one day after the USNTDP plays at Michigan in Ann Arbor, Mich. Michigan State historically plays an exhibition game against the USNTDP, with the two sometimes playing tight battles. The Spartans have handled USNTDP the past two seasons, with a 6-3 victory this year and a 5-2 victory the year prior. The Spartans have many ties back to the USNTDP, both with former and current players and coaches. Spartans star goalie Trey Augustine played for the USNTDP prior to coming to Michigan State, and Spartans head coach Adam Nightingale served as the USNTDP head coach from 2020 - 2022 before taking on the same role at Michigan State. The official Michigan State schedule for the upcoming season has not yet been released. That should be coming out in the next month or two (if not sooner). The Spartans will enter next season again as a preseason favorite to win the Big Ten and contend for a National Championship. Contact/Follow us @The SpartansWire on X (formerly Twitter) and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Michigan State news, notes and opinion. You can also follow Robert Bondy on X @RobertBondy5.
