{{Short description|Canadian ice hockey player (born 1991)}} {{Other people}} {{good article}} {{Use Canadian English|date=October 2015}} {{Infobox ice hockey biography | name = Ryan Ellis | image = Ryan Ellis 2017-06-08.jpg | caption = Ellis with the Nashville Predators in 2017 | birth_date = {{birth date and age|1991|1|3}} | birth_place = Freelton, Ontario, Canada | height_ft = 5 | height_in = 10 | weight_lb = 180 | position = Defence | shoots = Right | league = NHL | team = Chicago Blackhawks | former_teams = Nashville Predators<br>Philadelphia Flyers | ntl_team = CAN | draft = 11th overall | draft_team = Nashville Predators | draft_year = 2009 | career_start = 2012 | career_end = }} '''Ryan James Ellis''' (born January 3, 1991) is a Canadian professional ice hockey player who is a defenceman under contract with the Chicago Blackhawks of the National Hockey League (NHL). Ellis was drafted eleventh overall by the Nashville Predators in the 2009 NHL entry draft, and played with them for nine seasons.
After his second season in the Ontario Hockey League (OHL), Ellis was selected 11th overall by the Predators in the 2009 NHL entry draft. During his junior career, he was key in guiding the Windsor Spitfires to back-to-back Memorial Cups as Canadian Hockey League (CHL) champions in 2009 and 2010. Individually, he was named to the CHL and OHL All-Rookie Teams in 2008, the First OHL All-Star Team in 2009 and 2011 and the Second OHL All-Star Team in 2010. He was awarded the OHL's Bobby Smith Trophy as the League's scholastic player of the year in 2008, the Max Kaminsky Trophy as the top defenceman in 2009 and 2011 and the Red Tilson Trophy as the most outstanding player in 2011. On a national basis, he was named CHL Defenceman and Player of the Year in 2011. Serving as the Spitfires' team captain in 2010–11, he became the franchise's all-time leading point-scorer among defencemen.
Ellis began his international career with Canada by winning three gold medals in 2008 at the World U17 Hockey Challenge, IIHF World U18 Championship and Ivan Hlinka Memorial Tournament. At the under-20 level, Ellis has made three appearances at the World Junior Championships, winning gold in 2009 and silver in 2010 and 2011. He is the tournament's all-time leading scorer among defencemen and Canada's all-time assists leader. He also won gold with Team Canada at the 2016 World Championships.
==Playing career== ===Minor=== Ellis played minor hockey throughout Ontario, beginning with a club from Belmont, Ontario, at age four.<ref name=canadaprofile/> Playing for teams from Mississauga, he won a silver and gold medals at the peewee and bantam provincials, respectively.<ref name=canadaprofile>{{cite web|title=Ryan Ellis|url=http://www.hockeycanada.ca/index.php/ci_id/75136/la_id/1/player_id/114198/profile_id/152924/season_id/135415/ss_id/57000/|access-date=2010-12-31|publisher=Hockey Canada}}</ref> Joining the Cambridge Hawks at the midget level, he won an Ontario Alliance championship with the club in 2007.<ref>{{cite news |title=World juniors hit the Aud Thursday |url=https://www.therecord.com/sports/waterloo-region/2010/12/23/world-juniors-hit-the-aud-thursday.html |access-date=May 21, 2023 |work=The Record |date=December 23, 2010}}</ref>
===Junior=== Ellis was selected in the second round, 22nd overall, by the Windsor Spitfires in the 2007 Ontario Hockey League (OHL) Draft.<ref name=max/> Establishing himself as a top defenceman in the League during his rookie campaign, he scored 15 goals and 63 points over 63 games.<ref name=tsn/> His points total and +30 plus-minus rating led all OHL rookie defencemen.<ref>{{cite web|title=Rookies|url=http://www.ontariohockeyleague.com/stats/show/type/top_scorers/ls_season/32/subtype/2|access-date=2010-12-29|website=Ontario Hockey League|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120523183100/http://www.ontariohockeyleague.com/stats/show/type/top_scorers/ls_season/32/subtype/2|archive-date=2012-05-23}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=Plus/Minus|url=http://www.ontariohockeyleague.com/stats/show/type/records/ls_season/32/subtype/10|access-date=2010-12-29|website=Ontario Hockey League|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120523183203/http://www.ontariohockeyleague.com/stats/show/type/records/ls_season/32/subtype/10|archive-date=2012-05-23}}</ref> In the 2008 playoffs, Ellis added five points in five games<ref name=tsn/> as the Spitfires were eliminated by the Sarnia Sting. He was named to the Canadian Hockey League (CHL) and OHL All-Rookie Teams,<ref name=tsn>{{cite web|title=Ryan Ellis|url=http://tsn.ca/nhl/teams/players/bio/?id=7022|access-date=2010-12-29|publisher=The Sports Network|archive-date=2010-12-20|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101220202430/http://www.tsn.ca/nhl/teams/players/bio/?id=7022|url-status=dead}}</ref> along with Spitfires teammate Taylor Hall.<ref>{{cite web|title=Taylor Hall|url=http://tsn.ca/nhl/teams/players/bio/?id=7046|access-date=2010-12-29|publisher=The Sports Network}}</ref> Ellis was further recognized for his academic performance, maintaining an 81 percent average in university preparation courses at St. Anne Catholic High School in Belle River, earning him the League's Bobby Smith Trophy as scholastic player of the year.<ref name=smith>{{cite news|title=Ellis recognized for academic skills|url=http://www.canada.com/windsorstar/news/story.html?id=a9694be0-770f-4d7f-b4a5-6bf7090c0ebc|access-date=2010-12-29|date=2008-04-22|newspaper=Windsor Star|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121110090656/http://www.canada.com/windsorstar/news/story.html?id=a9694be0-770f-4d7f-b4a5-6bf7090c0ebc|archive-date=2012-11-10}}</ref> He received the award over fellow nominee Steven Stamkos of the Sting, who had won it the previous year.<ref name=smith/>
Ellis was named OHL Defenceman of the Month for October 2008 the following season.<ref name=oct08>{{cite news|title=Spits add Maxwell between the pipes|url=http://www.canada.com/windsorstar/news/sports/story.html?id=8da46e4e-3669-41d4-826a-44df676e32a0|access-date=2010-12-30|date=2008-11-08|newspaper=The Windsor Star|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121110090758/http://www.canada.com/windsorstar/news/sports/story.html?id=8da46e4e-3669-41d4-826a-44df676e32a0|archive-date=2012-11-10}}</ref> He earned the distinction twice more over the course of the campaign in February and March 2009.<ref name=max>{{cite news|title=Ryan Ellis named top OHL defenceman|url=http://www.sootoday.com/content/sports/full_story.asp?StoryNumber=38984|access-date=2010-12-30|date=2009-04-26|publisher=Soo Today|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120322074819/http://www.sootoday.com/content/sports/full_story.asp?StoryNumber=38984|archive-date=2012-03-22|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref name=feb09>{{cite news|title=Downie out for 20 games|url=http://www2.canada.com/windsorstar/news/sports/story.html?id=f2dce969-86d7-424a-bd10-cd41386f6ebd|access-date=2010-12-30|date=2009-03-06|newspaper=The Windsor Star|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120902093818/http://www2.canada.com/windsorstar/news/sports/story.html?id=f2dce969-86d7-424a-bd10-cd41386f6ebd|archive-date=2012-09-02|url-status=dead}}</ref> On November 3, he was chosen as OHL Player of the Week, having scored seven points in the previous two games.<ref name="pow nov08">{{cite news|title=Spitfires' Ryan Ellis named OHL Player of the Week|url=http://www.oursportscentral.com/services/releases/?id=3736185|access-date=2010-12-31|date=2008-11-04|publisher=OurSports Central}}</ref> Ellis his second such distinction on April 20, 2009, registering two goals and five assists in three games.<ref name="pow apr09">{{cite web|title=Spitfires' Ellis Named OHL Player of the Week|url=http://media.ontariohockeyleague.com/spitfires-ellis-named-boston-pizza-ohl-player-of-the-week--p128186|access-date=2010-12-31|date=2009-04-20|website=Ontario Hockey League|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110821060322/http://media.ontariohockeyleague.com/spitfires-ellis-named-boston-pizza-ohl-player-of-the-week--p128186|archive-date=2011-08-21|url-status=dead}}</ref> During the season, he represented the OHL in the 2008 ADT Canada-Russia Challenge.<ref>{{cite news|title=Six Spits to play in Canada-Russia Challenge series|url=http://www.canada.com/windsorstar/news/story.html?id=3195442d-ea33-4a1c-9852-33721e65ad3d|access-date=2010-12-30|date=2008-10-28|newspaper=Windsor Star|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121110090825/http://www.canada.com/windsorstar/news/story.html?id=3195442d-ea33-4a1c-9852-33721e65ad3d|archive-date=2012-11-10}}</ref> He also competed for the Western Conference at the 2009 OHL All-Star Classic and participated in the 2009 CHL Top Prospects Game.<ref name=max/><ref name=remember>{{cite web|title=Ellis having a year to remember|url=http://www.nhl.com/ice/newsprint.htm?id=412676|access-date=2009-04-24|website=National Hockey League|author=Adam Kimelman|archive-date=2010-12-01|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101201175948/http://www.nhl.com/ice/newsprint.htm?id=412676|url-status=dead}}</ref>
Improving to 22 goals, 67 assists and 89 points in 57 games in 2008–09, Ellis led all OHL defencemen and finished second in team scoring to Taylor Hall.<ref>{{cite web|title=Defencemen|url=http://www.ontariohockeyleague.com/stats/show/type/top_scorers/ls_season/35/subtype/1|access-date=2010-12-29|website=Ontario Hockey League|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110202231439/http://www.ontariohockeyleague.com/stats/show/type/top_scorers/ls_season/35/subtype/1|archive-date=2011-02-02}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=Windsor Spitfires|url=http://www.ontariohockeyleague.com/stats/show/type/skaters/ls_season/35/subtype/19|access-date=2010-12-29|website=Ontario Hockey League|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120523183213/http://www.ontariohockeyleague.com/stats/show/type/skaters/ls_season/35/subtype/19|archive-date=2012-05-23}}</ref> He ranked first in the league in assists, seventh in points and second in plus-minus rating (+52).<ref name=max/><ref>{{Cite web|title=2008–09 OHL League Leaders|url=http://www.hockeydb.com/ihdb/stats/top_league.php?lid=ohl1989&sid=2009&leaguenm=OHL|access-date=2009-04-24|publisher=Hockeydb.com}}</ref> As a result, Ellis was named to the OHL First All-Star Team and awarded the Max Kaminsky Trophy, beating fellow nominees P. K. Subban and Cameron Gaunce as the League's top defenceman.<ref name=max/><ref name=tsn/> The distinction made him a finalist for CHL Defenceman of the Year, but he lost to Jonathon Blum of the Western Hockey League (WHL)'s Vancouver Giants.<ref name="chl poy">{{cite news|title=Updated: Spitfires captain CHL player and defenceman of the year |url=https://windsorstar.com/sports/UPDATED+Spitfires+captain+player+defenceman+year/4857664/story.html |access-date=2011-09-18 |date=2011-05-29 |work=The Windsor Star |author=Parker, Jim |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110819065237/http://www.windsorstar.com/sports/UPDATED+Spitfires+captain+player+defenceman+year/4857664/story.html |archive-date=August 19, 2011 }}</ref> Ellis was additionally voted the smartest player, hardest shot and best offensive defenceman in the Western Conference in an annual poll of OHL coaches.<ref name=max/><ref name=smallkid/> Ellis later cited the smartest player selection as his most rewarding recognition to that date.<ref name=smallkid>{{Cite web|title=Ryan Ellis: Small Kid, Big Deal|url=http://www.thegoodpoint.com/hockey/may09/ryan-ellis-small-kid-big-deal.html|access-date=2009-05-16|date=2009-05-14|publisher=The Good Point|archive-date=2011-04-14|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110414145609/http://www.thegoodpoint.com/hockey/may09/ryan-ellis-small-kid-big-deal.html}}</ref>
Windsor entered the 2009 OHL playoffs as the top-ranked team in the OHL West. Ellis added 31 points in 20 games, tying for third in post-season scoring<ref>{{cite web|title=All Players|url=http://www.ontariohockeyleague.com/stats/show/type/top_scorers/ls_season/37|access-date=2010-12-29|website=Ontario Hockey League|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120523183218/http://www.ontariohockeyleague.com/stats/show/type/top_scorers/ls_season/37|archive-date=2012-05-23}}</ref> while helping the Spitfires to a J. Ross Robertson Cup as OHL champions. Earning a berth in the 2009 Memorial Cup, the Spitfires went on to win the national major junior championship over the Kelowna Rockets. Ellis recorded four points in six games to be named to the Tournament All-Star Team.<ref name=tsn/>
[[File:Ryan Ellis Spitfires 2010-04-20.jpg|upright|thumb|left|Ellis with the Windsor Spitfires in April 2010|alt=A teenage ice hockey player stickhandling a puck while standing still on the ice. His skates are shoulder-width apart and his eyes are downcast. He wears a white jersey with red and black trim, as well as a white, visored helmet.]] Going into the 2009 NHL entry draft, he was listed by the NHL Central Scouting Bureau as the 16th best prospect (fifth among defencemen) in North America.<ref>{{cite web |title=2009 CENTRAL SCOUTING RANKINGS |url=http://www.tsn.ca/draftcentre/feature/?id=11810 |publisher=The Sports Network |access-date=May 21, 2023 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20120919151918/http://www.tsn.ca/draftcentre/feature/?id=11810 |archive-date=September 19, 2012}}</ref> He was selected in the first round, 11th overall, by the Nashville Predators. Standing at 5 feet and 9 inches (1.75 metres), he was considered small for a defenceman.<ref name=remember/> Addressing this supposed weakness, Hall of Fame defenceman Bobby Orr said of him, "he's not very big, but you'll see...he's a heck of a hockey player."<ref name=remember/> Ellis has publicly discredited any size concerns, alluding to his ability to play physically in spite of it.<ref name=smallkid/> He has been compared to Detroit Red Wings defenceman Brian Rafalski for his success as a small, offensive defenceman.<ref name=smallkid/>
Ellis subsequently attended his first NHL training camp with Nashville in September 2009, but was returned to Windsor after suffering a wrist injury.<ref name=tsn/><ref>{{cite news|title=Ellis looks to crack top four among Team Canada's defence|url=https://www.tsn.ca/world_jrs/story/?id=302192|access-date=2011-03-07|date=2009-12-13|publisher=The Sports Network}}</ref> As a result, he missed ten games with the Spitfires, making his season debut in early-November.<ref>{{cite news|title=Hall haunts the Hounds|url=http://www.torontosun.com/sports/hockey/2009/11/06/11654466-sun.html|access-date=2010-01-02|date=2009-11-06|newspaper=The Toronto Sun}}</ref> Struggling offensively upon recovering, he focused on improving his defensive and physical play.<ref name=bigheart/> Finishing the season with 61 points over 48 games in 2009–10, he ranked fourth among League defencemen in point-scoring<ref>{{cite web|title=Defencemen|url=http://www.ontariohockeyleague.com/stats/show/type/top_scorers/ls_season/38/subtype/1|access-date=2010-12-30|website=Ontario Hockey League|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110202170443/http://www.ontariohockeyleague.com/stats/show/type/top_scorers/ls_season/38/subtype/1|archive-date=2011-02-02}}</ref> and was named to the OHL Second All-Star Team.<ref name=tsn/> Windsor defended both their OHL and Memorial Cup championships in the ensuing post-season. Ellis scored 33 points over 19 games in the OHL playoffs, tying with Jeff Skinner for second in OHL scoring, behind Taylor Hall.<ref>{{cite web|title=All Players|url=http://www.ontariohockeyleague.com/stats/show/type/top_scorers/ls_season/41|access-date=2010-12-30|website=Ontario Hockey League|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120910170339/http://www.ontariohockeyleague.com/stats/show/type/top_scorers/ls_season/41|archive-date=2012-09-10}}</ref> Windsor beat the Barrie Colts in the OHL Finals before defeating the Brandon Wheat Kings 9–1 in the Memorial Cup Final. Ellis recorded three assists in the national championship game.<ref name=closes/>
Attending his second Predators training camp, he was again returned to junior for the 2010–11 season.<ref name=closes>{{cite news|title=Predators send Ellis back to Windsor |url=https://nationalpost.com/sports/Predators+send+Ellis+back+Windsor/3615297/story.html |archive-url=https://archive.today/20101005160110/http://www.nationalpost.com/sports/Predators+send+Ellis+back+Windsor/3615297/story.html |url-status=dead |archive-date=2010-10-05 |access-date=2010-12-30 |date=2010-10-02 |newspaper=The National Post |author=Sean Fitz-Gerald }}</ref> Upon his return to Windsor, he was named team captain.<ref name=closes/> After recording five goals and 17 points in November 2010, he was named OHL Defenceman of the Month.<ref name=nov10>{{cite web|title=OHL Top Performers of the Month for November|url=http://www.ontariohockeyleague.com/article/ohl-top-performers-of-the-month-for-november|access-date=2010-12-30|website=Ontario Hockey League}}</ref> During the month, he surpassed Joel Quenneville as the Spitfires' all-time leading scorer among defencemen. He scored the game-winning goal in overtime against the London Knights on November 10 for his record-setting 230th career point with Windsor.<ref name=quenneville>{{cite news|title=Ryan Elils Named the Windsor Spitfires Player of the Week|url=http://www.oursportscentral.com/services/releases/?id=4119437|access-date=2010-12-30|date=2010-11-22|publisher=OurSports Central|archive-date=2011-06-29|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110629190608/http://www.oursportscentral.com/services/releases/?id=4119437|url-status=dead}}</ref> Ellis was honoured in a pre-game ceremony on November 26 for the feat; the game that night against the Oshawa Generals was billed as "Ryan Ellis Night."<ref name=quenneville/> Also in November, Ellis served as captain for Team OHL in the 2010 Subway Super Series against Russia.<ref name=quenneville/> Several months later, he recorded his 300th career OHL point on February 25, 2011. Registering three assists in a 4–2 win against the Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds, he became the third defenceman in OHL history to reach the mark, following Denis Potvin (330 points, 1968–73) and Rick Corriveau (329 points, 1987–92).<ref>{{cite web|title=Preds Prospect Ryan Ellis Joins Elite 300-Point Club|url=http://predators.nhl.com/club/news.htm?id=554269|website=Nashville Predators|access-date=2012-07-30|date=2011-02-26}}</ref> He completed the season with 313 points all-time. His single-season total of 100 points (24 goals and 76 assists) established a career-high while leading all OHL defencemen by a 21-point margin.<ref>{{cite web|title=2010–2011 Regular Season – Defencemen|url=http://www.ontariohockeyleague.com/stats/show/type/top_scorers/ls_season/42/subtype/1|access-date=2011-03-21|website=Ontario Hockey League|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101118033352/http://www.ontariohockeyleague.com/stats/show/type/top_scorers/ls_season/42/subtype/1|archive-date=2010-11-18}}</ref> It was the first time in over 17 years that an OHL defenceman scored 100 points in a season. Among all OHL skaters, he ranked fifth overall.<ref>{{cite web|title=2010–2011 Regular Season – All Players|url=http://www.ontariohockeyleague.com/stats/show/type/top_scorers/ls_season/42|access-date=2011-03-21|website=Ontario Hockey League|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110409191854/http://www.ontariohockeyleague.com/stats/show/type/top_scorers/ls_season/42|archive-date=2011-04-09}}</ref> After winning his second Max Kaminsky Trophy and first Red Tilson Trophy as the OHL's most outstanding defenceman and player, respectively, he was further distinguished as CHL Defenceman and Player of the Year. Ellis beat out Simon Després and Stefan Elliott for the former recognition, while being voted over Sean Couturier and Darcy Kuemper for the latter. It was the first time a player won both awards since Bryan Fogarty did so 22 years prior.<ref name="chl poy"/>
===Professional=== ====Nashville Predators organization==== Once the 2010–11 OHL season concluded, Ellis turned professional and joined the Predators' American Hockey League (AHL) affiliate, the Milwaukee Admirals, for the remainder of their season.<ref>{{cite web |title=Ryan Ellis Joins Milwaukee Admirals For Playoff Run |url=https://www.nhl.com/predators/news/ryan-ellis-joins-milwaukee-admirals-for-playoff-run/c-561498 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=May 21, 2023 |date=April 29, 2011}}</ref> Upon joining the Admirals, he immediately made an impact by tallying his first assist 10 minutes and 30 seconds into Game 1 of the West Division Finals.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Boehler |first1=Dave |title=Admirals' newest defenseman plays big |url=https://archive.jsonline.com/sports/hockey/121131254.html/ |access-date=May 21, 2023 |work=Milwaukee Journal Sentinel |date=May 2, 2011}}</ref> He later tallied his first professional goal in his sixth playoff game to stave off elimination and force a Game 7.<ref>{{cite web |title=Admirals Force Game 7 with OT Win |url=https://www.oursportscentral.com/services/releases/admirals-force-game-7-with-ot-win/n-4199701 |publisher=Our Sports Central |access-date=May 21, 2023 |date=May 8, 2011}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Ellis Nets 1st Pro Goal; Ads Force Game 7 |url=https://www.nhl.com/predators/news/ellis-nets-1st-pro-goal-ads-force-game-7/c-562284 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=May 21, 2023 |date=May 9, 2011}}</ref>
Prior to the start of the 2011–12 season, Ellis participated in the 2011 Florida Rookie Tournament where he led all team defensemen with two points.<ref>{{cite web |title=The Week Ahead... (Sept. 19) |url=https://www.nhl.com/predators/news/the-week-ahead-sept-19/c-588934 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=May 21, 2023 |date=September 19, 2011}}</ref> He played in five of Nashville's 2011 preseason contests, posting one assist and a +3 rating, before being assigned to the AHL for the 2011–12 season.<ref>{{cite web |title=Preds Assign Ryan Ellis To Milwaukee |url=https://www.nhl.com/predators/news/preds-assign-ryan-ellis-to-milwaukee/c-590985 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=May 21, 2023 |date=October 3, 2011}}</ref> Ellis immediately continued his production from the playoffs and tallied two assists in his first regular season AHL game.<ref>{{cite web |title=Ads Win AHL Home Opener, 4-2; Ellis Notches 2 Assists |url=https://www.nhl.com/predators/news/ads-win-ahl-home-opener-4-2-ellis-notches-2-assists/c-596071 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=May 21, 2023 |date=October 15, 2011}}</ref> By mid-November, Ellis had accumulated three goals and five assists for eight points through 12 games.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Mullen |first1=Bryan |title=Preds Prospect Report: Nov. 16 |url=https://www.nhl.com/predators/news/preds-prospect-report-nov-16/c-601848 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=May 21, 2023 |date=November 16, 2011}}</ref> He also maintained a five game point streak from November 13 to 26.<ref name="AHL">{{cite web |title=Ellis, Mueller Named To AHL All-Star Game |url=https://www.nhl.com/predators/news/ellis-mueller-named-to-ahl-all-star-game/c-609887 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=May 21, 2023 |date=January 4, 2012}}</ref> He improved to four goals and eight assists for 15 points by December 9.<ref>{{cite web |title=Admirals Play Three-In-Three this Weekend |url=https://www.oursportscentral.com/services/releases/admirals-play-three-in-three-this-weekend/n-4329323 |publisher=Our Sports Central |access-date=May 21, 2023 |date=December 9, 2011}}</ref> Later that month, he was tied for first among rookie defencemen and ninth among all AHL defencemen with 17 points through 26 games. As a result of his AHL success, Ellis was recalled to the NHL level on December 26.<ref>{{cite web |title=Preds Call Up Ryan Ellis From Milwaukee |url=https://www.nhl.com/predators/news/preds-call-up-ryan-ellis-from-milwaukee/c-608175 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=May 21, 2023 |date=December 26, 2011}}</ref> He played 13:37 minutes of ice time in his debut that night and was minus-one with two shots on goal against the Detroit Red Wings.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Duff |first1=Bob |title=Ellis finds NHL debut a whirlwind experience |url=https://windsorstar.com/sports/hockey/ellis-finds-nhl-debut-a-whirlwind-experience |access-date=May 21, 2023 |publisher=Windsor Star |date=December 27, 2011}}</ref> His play also earned him a selection to the 2012 AHL All-Star Game<ref name="AHL"/> although he was unable to participate as he was still with the Predators.<ref>{{cite web |title=Admirals Ryan Ellis out of AHL All-Star Classic Because of Recall |url=https://www.oursportscentral.com/services/releases/admirals-ryan-ellis-out-of-ahl-all-star-classic-because-of-recall/n-4346881 |publisher=Our Sports Central |access-date=May 21, 2023 |date=January 25, 2012}}</ref> In his fifth career NHL game on January 7, Ellis recorded his first NHL point on Patric Hornqvist’s second period power-play goal. Later that game, he tallied his first career NHL goal in the third period to help the Predators defeat the Carolina Hurricanes.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Diamond |first1=Jim |title=Post-Game Musings: vs. Carolina |url=https://www.nhl.com/predators/news/post-game-musings-vs-carolina/c-610543 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=May 21, 2023 |date=January 7, 2012}}</ref> Through his first 12 games at the NHL level, Ellis accumulated two goals and four assists for six points and a plus-4 rating. As he began earning the trust of head coach Barry Trotz, Ellis also saw time on the second power-play unit with Roman Josi.<ref>{{cite web |title=NHL.com: Preds' Ellis showing he's not all about offense |url=https://www.nhl.com/predators/news/nhl-com-preds-ellis-showing-hes-not-all-about-offense/c-613190 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=May 21, 2023 |date=January 23, 2012}}</ref> After being named a healthy scratch for one game, Ellis returned to the Predators lineup on February 15 and quickly tallied a goal and an assist for his third multi-point game of the season.<ref>{{cite web |title=Ellis' third-period goal for Predators sends Blackhawks to 9th straight loss |url=https://www.nhl.com/news/ellis-third-period-goal-for-predators-sends-blackhawks-to-9th-straight-loss/c-617061 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=May 22, 2023 |date=February 15, 2012}}</ref> He played in 22 games with the Predators, tallying three goals and six assists, before being re-assigned to the AHL on February 24.<ref>{{cite web |title=Ellis Reassigned to Milwaukee |url=https://www.oursportscentral.com/services/releases/ellis-reassigned-to-milwaukee/n-4358966 |publisher=Our Sports Central |access-date=May 22, 2023 |date=February 24, 2012}}</ref> He posted one assist over three games before being recalled to the NHL level on February 27.<ref>{{cite web |title=Preds Recall Ryan Ellis From Milwaukee |url=https://www.nhl.com/predators/news/preds-recall-ryan-ellis-from-milwaukee/c-619398 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=May 22, 2023 |date=February 27, 2012}}</ref> As the Predators qualified for the 2012 Stanley Cup playoffs, Ellis made his postseason debut in Game 3 of the Western Conference Quarterfinals against the Detroit Red Wings. Although he remained pointless over the three games he played, the Predators beat the Red Wings and met with the Chicago Blackhawks.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Radley |first1=Scott |title=Ellis all business in first NHL playoff run |url=https://www.thespec.com/sports/hockey/2012/04/27/ellis-all-business-in-first-nhl-playoff-run.html |access-date=May 22, 2023 |publisher=The Hamilton Spectator |date=April 27, 2012}}</ref>
After participating in the Predators 2012 training camp, Ellis was re-assigned to their AHL affiliate for the 2012–13 season.<ref>{{cite web |title=Preds Assign 22 Players To The Milwaukee Admirals |url=https://www.nhl.com/predators/news/preds-assign-22-players-to-the-milwaukee-admirals/c-641534 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=May 22, 2023 |date=September 14, 2012}}</ref> However, he was unable to play until November 23, 2012, due to a broken wrist.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Dadoun |first1=Ryan |title=Ryan Ellis makes 2012-13 debut in AHL after broken wrist |url=https://nhl.nbcsports.com/2012/11/23/ryan-ellis-makes-2012-13-debut-in-ahl-after-broken-wrist/ |publisher=NBC Sports |access-date=May 22, 2023 |date=November 23, 2012}}</ref> He quickly accumulated two goals and seven assists for nine points through 20 games before the 2012–13 NHL lockout concluded.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Compton |first1=Brian |title=Crawford, Helm, Ellis look to make Central impact |url=https://www.nhl.com/news/crawford-helm-ellis-look-to-make-central-impact/c-649860 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=May 22, 2023 |date=January 15, 2013}}</ref> Once the lockout ended, Ellis participated in the Predators training camp<ref>{{cite web |last1=Russell |first1=Jimi |title=2012-13 Nashville Predators Training Camp Report |url=https://www.nhl.com/predators/news/2012-13-nashville-predators-training-camp-report/c-647604 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=May 22, 2023 |date=January 16, 2013}}</ref> and was named to their opening night roster for the shortened 2012–13 season.<ref>{{cite web |title=NHL Opening-Day rosters for 2012-13 season |url=https://www.nhl.com/news/nhl-opening-day-rosters-for-2012-13-season/c-651234 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=May 22, 2023 |date=January 19, 2013}}</ref> Ellis immediately tallied two points through his first two games<ref>{{cite web |last1=Metzer |first1=Brian |title=On the 'D'-fence: Blue liners can make big difference |url=https://www.nhl.com/news/on-the-d-fence-blue-liners-can-make-big-difference/c-652019 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=May 22, 2023 |date=January 23, 2013}}</ref> but struggled to produce points as the season continued.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Metzer |first1=Brian |title=On the 'D'-fence: Weber's woes worry fantasy owners |url=https://www.nhl.com/news/on-the-d-fence-webers-woes-worry-fantasy-owners/c-654400 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=May 22, 2023 |date=February 6, 2013}}</ref> After only accumulating two goals and four assists over 31 games, Ellis was re-assigned to the Admirals on March 25.<ref>{{cite web |title=Nashville Predators Reassign Ellis to Milwaukee |url=https://www.nhl.com/predators/news/nashville-predators-reassign-ellis-to-milwaukee/c-662028 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=May 26, 2023 |date=March 25, 2013}}</ref> He finished the NHL season with two goals and six points in 32 games.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Morreale |first1=Mike G. |title=30 in 30: Revamped Predators hope for playoff return |url=https://www.nhl.com/news/30-in-30-revamped-predators-hope-for-playoff-return/c-679754 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=May 27, 2023 |date=August 12, 2013}}</ref>
Prior to the start of the 2013–14 season, the Predators hired Phil Housley as their assistant coach in part to help Ellis and the other young defencemen improve their game.<ref name="Cooper">{{cite news |last1=Cooper |first1=Josh |title=Predators defenseman Ellis enters critical year |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-leaf-chronicle-ellis/125337579/ |access-date=May 28, 2023 |publisher=The Leaf-Chronicle |date=September 27, 2013|via=newspapers.com}}</ref> During the Predators 2013 training camp, head coach Barry Trotz stated that although he felt Ellis was pressing too hard in the previous season, he saw the defenseman was more determined entering the 2013–14 season.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Morreale |first1=Mike G. |title=30 in 15: Ellis, Wilson bear watching in Preds camp |url=https://www.nhl.com/news/30-in-15-ellis-wilson-bear-watching-in-preds-camp/c-682741 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=May 27, 2023 |date=September 18, 2013}}</ref> Through his first four preseason games, Ellis accumulated one assist and an even plus-minus rating.<ref name="Cooper"/> Despite his slow start, Ellis was named to the Predator's opening night roster for the first time in his NHL career.<ref>{{cite web |title=Nashville Predators Set 2013-14 Opening Night Roster |url=https://www.nhl.com/predators/news/nashville-predators-set-2013-14-opening-night-roster/c-684839 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=May 27, 2023 |date=September 30, 2013}}</ref> Through the first 10 games of the season, Ellis averaged 10 minutes per game and saw his ice time increase once defencemen Roman Josi suffered an injury in late October.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Organ |first1=Mike |title=Trotz not giving away Josi secrets |url=https://www.newspapers.com/article/the-leaf-chronicle-trotz-not-giving-away/125460381/ |access-date=May 28, 2023 |publisher=The Leaf-Chronicle |date=October 30, 2013|via=newspapers.com}}</ref> By December, Ellis had accumulated one goal and nine points through 34 games and spent time on the Predators' second power-play unit.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Chaumont |first1=Jean Franchois |title=La lente ascension de Ryan Ellis |url=https://www.journaldemontreal.com/2013/12/21/la-lente-ascension-de-ryan-ellis |access-date=May 28, 2023 |publisher=Le Journal de Montréal |date=21 December 2013 |language=French}}</ref> His scoring began to pick up in January and the following months saw him hit numerous personal milestones. His 42-game scoring drought came to an end on January 15 after he tallied a goal and an assist in the third period to lead the Predators to a 4–2 win over the Calgary Flames.<ref>{{cite web |title=Ellis leads Predators to 4-2 win over Flames |url=https://www.espn.com/nhl/recap/_/gameId/400484947 |publisher=ESPN |access-date=May 28, 2023 |date=January 15, 2014}}</ref> By the end of January, Ellis had maintained a plus-4 rating while accumulating a career-best 13 assists and 16 points. Although he often played as a bottom defenceman, Ellis averaged 14:27 per game in time on ice while also manning the second power-play unit with rookie Seth Jones.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Manasso |first1=John |title=Predators seeing Ellis move forward in development |url=https://www.nhl.com/ice/news.htm?id=702695 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=May 28, 2023 |date=January 31, 2014}}</ref> After the Predators acquired Michael Del Zotto, Ellis began playing with Mattias Ekholm on the third pairing while Jones played with Del Zotto on the second.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Rosen |first1=Dan |title=Over the Boards: Olympic break provides respite |url=https://www.nhl.com/news/over-the-boards-olympic-break-provides-respite/c-703704 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=May 28, 2023 |date=February 5, 2014}}</ref> Prior to Trotz's firing, Ellis began logging close to 20 minutes a night in March and April and his minutes continued to grow under new head coach Peter Laviolette.<ref name="Aykroyd">{{cite web |last1=Aykroyd |first1=Lucas |title=Ellis pursuing excellence |url=http://www.worldjunior2015.com/en/news/ellis-pursuing-excellence/ |publisher=IIHF |access-date=May 28, 2023 |date=June 11, 2014}}</ref> He finished the 2013–14 season with six goals and 21 assists through 80 games, although he remained unsigned as a restricted free agent.<ref>{{cite web |last1=LeBrun |first1=Pierre |title=What's latest on Ryan Ellis, Ryan Johansen and other unsigned RFAs? |url=https://www.espn.com/blog/nhl/post/_/id/32620/whats-latest-on-ryan-ellis-ryan-johansen-and-other-unsigned-rfas |publisher=ESPN |access-date=May 28, 2023 |date=September 23, 2014}}</ref> As the Predators failed to qualify for the 2014 Stanley Cup playoffs, Ellis was named to Team Canada's senior team for the 2014 IIHF World Championship.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Wilson |first1=Kevin |title=Predators to be Well Represented at the 2014 World Championships |url=https://www.nhl.com/predators/news/predators-to-be-well-represented-at-the-2014-world-championships/c-715337 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=May 28, 2023 |date=April 17, 2014}}</ref>
Following the 2014 IIHF World Championship, Ellis and the Predators had yet to come to a contract agreement. As such, Ellis began skating with his junior team, the Windsor Spitfires, to stay in shape.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Bratten |first1=Brooks |title=Training Camp Recap: Day 9 |url=https://www.nhl.com/predators/news/training-camp-recap-day-9/c-731975 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=May 28, 2023 |date=September 26, 2014}}</ref> The organization eventually signed Ellis to a five-year, $12.5 million contract on September 26.<ref>{{cite web |title=Nashville Predators Sign Defenseman Ryan Ellis to a Five-Year $12.5 Million Contract |url=https://www.nhl.com/predators/news/nashville-predators-sign-defenseman-ryan-ellis-to-a-five-year-12-5-million-contract/c-731816 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=May 28, 2023 |date=September 26, 2014}}</ref> Despite missing time at training camp, Ellis began the 2014–15 season strong. On October 22, he recorded a career-high three points and scored the game-winning shootout goal to lead the Predators over the Arizona Coyotes.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Willis |first1=Thomas |title=Ellis Paces Preds to Shootout Win |url=https://www.nhl.com/predators/news/ellis-paces-preds-to-shootout-win/c-735584 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=May 28, 2023 |date=October 22, 2014}}</ref>
On August 14, 2018, the Predators re-signed Ellis to an eight-year, $50 million dollar contract extension with a $6.25 million dollar salary starting in the 2019–20 season.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Wyshynski |first1=Greg |title=Predators D Ryan Ellis signs 8-year, $50M extension |url=https://www.espn.com/nhl/story/_/id/24373724/nashville-predators-d-ryan-ellis-signs-8-year-50m-extension |publisher=ESPN |access-date=May 28, 2023 |date=August 14, 2018}}</ref>
====Philadelphia Flyers==== On July 17, 2021, Ellis was traded to the Philadelphia Flyers in exchange for Philippe Myers and Nolan Patrick, who was then traded to the Vegas Golden Knights for forward Cody Glass.<ref>{{cite web |title=Ellis traded to Flyers by Predators |url=https://www.nhl.com/news/nashville-predators-trade-ryan-ellis-to-philadelphia-flyers/c-325678384 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=June 18, 2023 |date=July 19, 2021}}</ref> Ellis played four games until November 13 after he suffered a "multilayered" issue involving the "complex of the whole pelvic region."<ref>{{cite web |last1=Kimelman |first1=Adam |title=Ellis could miss start of season for Flyers, Tortorella says |url=https://www.nhl.com/news/ryan-ellis-could-miss-start-of-season-for-philadelphia-flyers/c-335345554 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=June 18, 2023 |date=August 22, 2022}}</ref> Although he was expected to be ready for the 2022–23 season,<ref>{{cite web |last1=Kimelman |first1=Adam |title=Ellis expects to be ready for training camp with Flyers |url=https://www.nhl.com/news/philadelphia-flyers-ryan-ellis-injury-status-update/c-333637108 |publisher=National Hockey League |access-date=June 18, 2023 |date=May 3, 2022}}</ref> Flyers general manager Chuck Fletcher described the injury as possibly career-ending.<ref>{{cite web |title=Flyers GM Fletcher: Ryan Ellis' injury could be career-ending |url=https://www.sportsnet.ca/nhl/article/flyers-gm-ryan-ellis-unlikely-to-play-in-2022-23-season/ |publisher=Sportsnet |access-date=June 18, 2023 |date=September 22, 202}}</ref>
====Post-injury years==== In October 2025, Ellis' contract was traded to the San Jose Sharks alongside a conditional sixth-round pick in 2026 in exchange for Carl Grundstrom and Artem Guryev.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.nhl.com/sharks/news/sharks-acquire-defenseman-ryan-ellis-and-conditional-2026-sixth-round-draft-pick-from-flyers-for-grundstrom-and-guryev|title=Sharks acquire defenseman Ryan Ellis and conditional 2026 sixth-round draft pick from Flyers for Grundstrom and Guryev|website=nhl.com |date=October 5, 2025|access-date=October 5, 2025}}</ref> Several months later, on January 8, 2026, his contract was traded to the Chicago Blackhawks, alongside Jake Furlong and a fourth-round pick in 2028, in exchange for Nolan Allan, Laurent Brossoit, and a seventh-round pick in 2028.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.tsn.ca/nhl/article/sharks-acquire-g-brossoit-from-blackhawks-in-multi-player-deal/ |title=Sharks acquire G Brossoit from Blackhawks in multi-player deal |website=tsn.ca |date=January 8, 2026 |access-date=January 8, 2026}}</ref>
==International play== {{MedalTableTop|Ryan Ellis Canada 2009-12-12.jpg|150px|Ellis at the national junior team's December 2009 selection camp|alt=A Caucasian teenage ice hockey player. He stands crouched over towards the ice with his stick resting laterally on his thighs. He wears a black jersey with a stylized maple leaf logo.|name=}} {{MedalSport|Men's ice hockey}} {{MedalCountry|{{flagicon|CAN}} Canada}} {{MedalCompetition|World Championships}} {{MedalGold|2016 Russia|}} {{MedalCompetition|World Junior Championships}} {{MedalGold|2009 Canada|}} {{MedalSilver|2010 Canada|}} {{MedalSilver|2011 United States|}} {{MedalCompetition|Ivan Hlinka Memorial Tournament}} {{MedalGold|2008 Czech Republic/Slovakia|}} {{MedalCompetition|IIHF World U18 Championship}} {{MedalGold|2008 Russia|}} {{MedalCountry|{{flagicon|CAN}} Canada Ontario}} {{MedalCompetition|World U-17 Hockey Challenge}} {{MedalGold|2008 Canada|}} {{MedalBottom}}
Ellis made his debut with Hockey Canada at the 2008 World U17 Hockey Challenge, representing Ontario, the tournament's host province. He scored his first international goal against Team Pacific on December 29, 2007, a game in which he was also chosen as Ontario's best player.<ref>{{cite web |title=Ontario 4 - Pacific 2 |url=http://www.hockeycanada.ca/index.php?ci_id=11728&la_id=1&ss_id=25022&game_id=1348 |publisher=Hockey Canada |access-date=May 21, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120604184506/http://www.hockeycanada.ca/index.php?ci_id=11728&la_id=1&ss_id=25022&game_id=1348 |archive-date=June 4, 2012}}</ref> Team Ontario won eight straight games as they won the tournament.<ref name=u17>{{cite web |title=TEAM ONTARIO WINS GOLD MEDAL AT 2008 WORLD UNDER-17 HOCKEY CHALLENGE TEAM WEST TAKES BRONZE |url=https://www.hockeycanada.ca/en-ca/news/2008-nr-008-en |publisher=Hockey Canada |access-date=May 21, 2023 |date=January 4, 2008}}</ref> With nine points in eight games, Ellis was the tournament's leading defenceman<ref>{{cite web |title=Statistics |url=http://www.hockeycanada.ca/index.php/ci_id/51777/la_id/1.htm |publisher=Hockey Canada |access-date=May 21, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120604190108/http://www.hockeycanada.ca/index.php/ci_id/51777/la_id/1.htm |archive-date=June 4, 2012}}</ref> and was named to the All-Star Team, along with Ontario teammate Matt Duchene.<ref name=u17/>
Later that year, Ellis was named to Canada's team for the 2008 IIHF World U18 Championships in Russia. Leading his team in shots on goal,<ref>{{cite web|title=CAN – Canada|url=https://stats.iihf.com/Hydra/148/IHM1480CAN_83_8_0.pdf|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210512200503/http://reports.iihf.hockey/Hydra/148/IHM1480CAN_83_8_0.pdf|url-status=live|archive-date=May 12, 2021|work=IIHF|access-date=2010-12-30}}</ref> he helped Canada to a gold medal, defeating Russia 8–0 in the final. He recorded a goal and an assist in the championship victory.<ref>{{cite web|title=Game Summary|url=https://stats.iihf.com/Hydra/148/IHM148131_74_5_0.pdf|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210512191306/http://reports.iihf.hockey/Hydra/148/IHM148131_74_5_0.pdf|url-status=live|archive-date=May 12, 2021|access-date=2010-12-30|work=IIHF|date=2008-04-23}}</ref> Finishing with three goals and seven points, he was the tournament's leading defenceman.<ref>{{cite web|title=defencemen Scoring Leaders|url=https://stats.iihf.com/Hydra/148/IHM148Z52_85E_1_0.pdf|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210513133653/http://reports.iihf.hockey/Hydra/148/IHM148Z52_85E_1_0.pdf|url-status=live|archive-date=May 13, 2021|work=IIHF|access-date=2010-12-30}}</ref> Four months later, he re-joined the national under-18 team for the 2008 Ivan Hlinka Memorial Tournament, held in Slovakia and the Czech Republic. Ellis led all team defencemen in scoring with five points (a goal and four assists),<ref>{{cite web|title=Canada|url=http://www.hockeycanada.ca/index.php/ci_id/56641/la_id/1.htm|access-date=2010-12-30|website=International Ice Hockey Federation}}</ref> helping Canada go undefeated in four games. They defeated Russia 6–3 in the final to capture the gold medal.<ref>{{cite web|title=Schedule/Results/Rosters|url=http://www.hockeycanada.ca/index.php/ci_id/55845/la_id/1.htm|access-date=2010-12-30|publisher=Hockey Canada}}</ref>
Moving on to the Canada's under-20 team, he made his first of three World Junior Championship appearances in 2009. Named to the team at 17 years old, he was one of three draft-eligible players on the club with John Tavares and Evander Kane.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Canada – Roster|url=http://www.hockeycanada.ca/index.php/ci_id/58868/la_id/1.htm|access-date=2009-04-24|publisher=Hockey Canada}}</ref> Head Coach Pat Quinn had coached Ellis previously at the World U18 Championships. He selected Ellis to the team as the eighth defencemen, instead of choosing a traditional 13th forward, because of his abilities on the power play.<ref name=special>{{Cite news|title=Ellis ready for his special role with Canada|url=https://www.tsn.ca/story/?id=260891|access-date=2010-01-02|date=2008-12-26|publisher=The Sports Network|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110629091852/http://www.tsn.ca/story/?id=260891|archive-date=2011-06-29|url-status=dead}}</ref> In the semifinal against Russia, Ellis was instrumental in tying the game with five seconds remaining in regulation. Twice, he preventing the puck from being cleared out of the offensive zone, which allowed a play to develop that resulted in Jordan Eberle's game-tying goal.<ref>{{cite news|title=Tavares reverts to childhood memories|url=http://newsdurhamregion.com/sports/article/116664|access-date=2010-12-30|date=2009-01-04|publisher=Metroland Media}}</ref> Canada beat Russia in a shootout before defeating Sweden in the final to win gold. Ellis scored seven points over six games to finish fourth among tournament defencemen in scoring.<ref>{{cite web|title=defencemen Scoring Leaders|url=https://stats.iihf.com/Hydra/172/IHM172Z12_85E_1_0.pdf|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210506111415/http://reports.iihf.hockey/Hydra/172/IHM172Z12_85E_1_0.pdf|url-status=live|archive-date=May 6, 2021|work=IIHF|access-date=2009-04-24}}</ref> It also set a Canadian record for most points by a 17-year-old defenceman.<ref name=elite>{{cite web|title=Ellis combines veteran presence with elite play|url=http://predators.nhl.com/club/news.htm?id=547468|access-date=2010-12-31|date=2010-12-27|website=Nashville Predators}}</ref>
The following year, Ellis returned for the 2010 World Junior Championships in Saskatchewan. Canada went undefeated in the tournament until the gold medal game, where they lost to the United States in overtime.<ref>{{cite web|title=Game and Results|url=http://www.iihf.com/channels0910/wm20/statistics.html|work=IIHF|access-date=2010-12-31}}</ref> The defeat ended Canada's five-year gold medal streak at the World Juniors and marked the first time Ellis competed in an international competition without winning gold. He finished with eight points over six games, ranking second among tournament defencemen behind teammate Alex Pietrangelo.<ref>{{cite web|title=defencemen Scoring Leaders|url=https://stats.iihf.com/Hydra/205/IHM205000_85E_11_0.pdf|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210506071845/http://reports.iihf.hockey/Hydra/205/IHM205000_85E_11_0.pdf|url-status=live|archive-date=May 6, 2021|date=2010-01-06|work=IIHF|access-date=2010-12-31}}</ref>
As a two-time veteran of Canada's junior team, Ellis opted not to attend their annual summer evaluation camp.<ref name=summercamp>{{cite web|title=National Junior Team Selection Camp Roster By The Numbers|url=http://www.hockeycanada.ca/index.php/ci_id/151483/la_id/1/|publisher=Hockey Canada|date=2010-11-29|access-date=2010-12-30|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120604183942/http://www.hockeycanada.ca/index.php/ci_id/151483/la_id/1/|archive-date=June 4, 2012}}</ref> In December 2010, he was named to the squad as one of four returning players for the 2011 World Junior Championships, held in Buffalo, New York. Ellis became the seventh player in Canadian history to play three times in the tournament.{{#tag:ref|The previous six were Jay Bouwmeester, Jason Spezza, Jason Botterill, Martin Lapointe, Eric Lindros and Trevor Kidd.<ref name=canadacaptain/>|group=notes}}<ref name=canadacaptain/> He was later chosen as team captain.<ref name=canadacaptain>{{cite news|title=Ellis named captain Canada|url=https://edmontonjournal.com/sports/Ellis+named+Canadian+captain/4002437/story.html|newspaper=The Edmonton Journal|date=2010-12-19|access-date=2010-12-30|archive-date=2011-01-09|archive-url=https://archive.today/20110109002235/http://www.edmontonjournal.com/sports/Ellis+named+Canadian+captain/4002437/story.html|url-status=dead}}</ref> Ellis began the tournament tied with Pietrangelo as the country's all-time top-scoring defenceman at the World Juniors.<ref name=canadacaptain/> By scoring a goal in the opening game against Russia, a 6–3 win for Canada, he broke the tie to take the all-time scoring lead among Canadian defencemen.<ref>{{cite web|title=Game Summary|url=https://stats.iihf.com/Hydra/236/IHM236B02_74_4_0.pdf|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210505123434/http://reports.iihf.hockey/Hydra/236/IHM236B02_74_4_0.pdf|url-status=live|archive-date=May 5, 2021|access-date=2010-12-31|work=IIHF|date=2010-12-26}}</ref> Later in the tournament, Ellis recorded three assists in a game against Norway, making him the World Juniors' all-time leading scorer among defencemen, passing Finnish defenceman Reijo Ruotsalainen's mark of 21 points.<ref name=dscoring>{{cite news|title=Canada has little trouble with Norway|url=http://www.buffalonews.com/sports/world-juniors/article296719.ece|access-date=2010-12-30|date=2010-12-30|newspaper=Buffalo News}}</ref> In the quarterfinal, he assisted on a goal against Switzerland to break Eric Lindros's 19-assist record as Canada's all-time leader at the tournament.<ref name="canada assists">{{cite news |last1=Koshan |first1=Terry |title=Another slow start could cost Canada |url=https://torontosun.com/sports/hockey/2011/01/02/16737476.html |access-date=May 21, 2023 |publisher=Toronto Sun |date=January 2, 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110106041523/https://torontosun.com/sports/hockey/2011/01/02/16737476.html |archive-date=January 6, 2011}}</ref> Playing Russia in the gold medal game, Ellis scored the opening goal in a 5–3 losing effort,<ref>{{cite web|title=Game Summary|url=https://stats.iihf.com/Hydra/236/IHM236131_74_3_0.pdf|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210505213644/http://reports.iihf.hockey/Hydra/236/IHM236131_74_3_0.pdf|url-status=live|archive-date=May 5, 2021|access-date=2011-01-05|work=IIHF|date=2011-01-05}}</ref> earning silver for the second consecutive year. Finishing the tournament with three goals and ten points to lead all blueliners,<ref>{{cite web|title=defencemen Scoring Leaders|url=https://stats.iihf.com/Hydra/236/IHM236000_85E_11_0.pdf|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210505213638/http://reports.iihf.hockey/Hydra/236/IHM236000_85E_11_0.pdf|url-status=live|archive-date=May 5, 2021|access-date=2011-01-05|work=IIHF|date=2011-01-05}}</ref> he earned Best Defenceman and All-Star Team honours.<ref name="best d">{{cite web|title=Best Players Selected By The Directorate|url=https://stats.iihf.com/Hydra/236/IHM236000_85I_1_0.pdf|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210505145820/http://reports.iihf.hockey/Hydra/236/IHM236000_85I_1_0.pdf|url-status=live|archive-date=May 5, 2021|access-date=2011-01-05|work=IIHF|date=2011-01-05}}</ref><ref name="wjc allstar">{{cite web|title=Media All-Stars|url=https://stats.iihf.com/Hydra/236/IHM236000_98_1_0.pdf|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210505123424/http://reports.iihf.hockey/Hydra/236/IHM236000_98_1_0.pdf|url-status=live|archive-date=May 5, 2021|access-date=2011-01-05|work=IIHF|date=2011-01-05}}</ref> He was additionally voted by tournament coaches as one of Canada's best three players.<ref>{{cite web|title=Best Players Of Each Team Selected By Coachces|url=https://stats.iihf.com/Hydra/236/IHM236000_85J_1_0.pdf|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210505185146/http://reports.iihf.hockey/Hydra/236/IHM236000_85J_1_0.pdf|url-status=live|archive-date=May 5, 2021|access-date=2011-01-05|work=IIHF|date=2011-01-05}}</ref> With 25 points over three years at the tournament, he tied Jordan Eberle as Canada's second-best scorer of all-time, behind Lindros' 31 points.<ref name="canada assists"/>
Ellis was a late addition to Team Canada at the 2016 IIHF World Championship, joining the team in mid-tournament after Nashville was knocked out of the NHL playoffs; the team went on to win the gold medal.<ref>{{cite news|last1=Sadler|first1=Emily|title=Predators' Ryan Ellis joining Team Canada at worlds|url=http://www.sportsnet.ca/hockey/nhl/predators-ryan-ellis-joining-team-canada-worlds/|access-date=July 3, 2016|publisher=Sportsnet|date=May 14, 2016}}</ref>
==Playing style== Ellis is an offensive defenceman. A fast skater and skilled stickhandler, he is capable of manoeuvring the puck up the ice from the defensive zone. Known as a power play specialist, he often "quarterbacks" from the blueline—controlling puck distribution between teammates in the offensive zone—and possesses a hard and accurate shot.<ref name=special/> He is also a physical player, though he is undersized as a defenceman at 5 feet and 10 inches (1.78 metres). He is able to compensate for his lack of overpowering strength with good defensive positioning and active stick-checking.<ref name=bigheart>{{cite news |last1=Wiebe |first1=Ken |title=Small Ellis' big heart |url=https://torontosun.com/sports/hockey/2010/05/20/14026131.html |access-date=May 21, 2023 |publisher=Toronto Sun |date=May 22, 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100522121756/https://torontosun.com/sports/hockey/2010/05/20/14026131.html |archive-date=May 22, 2010}}</ref>
==Personal life== Ellis was born in Freelton, Ontario, to parents Jim and Mary Lou.<ref>{{cite news|title=Ryan Ellis' dad thinks son, Canadians ready for gold|url=http://www.torontosun.com/sports/hockey/2010/01/05/12356176.html|access-date=2010-12-31|date=2010-01-05|newspaper=The Toronto Sun}}</ref> He has one sister.<ref name=canadaprofile/> He went to Balaclava Public School followed by Waterdown High School. Moving away from home for his junior career, he attended St. Anne High School.<ref name=smith/> In February 2010, Ellis was selected as his hometown Hamilton/Burlington area's 2009 Golden Horseshoe Athlete of the Year, beating out college quarterback Danny Brannagan and marathon runner Reid Coolsaet.<ref>{{cite news|title=Ryan Ellis adds Golden Horseshoe honour to winning year|url=http://www.hamiltonscores.com/2010/02/27/ryan-ellis-adds-golden-horseshoe-honour-to-winning-year/|access-date=2010-12-31|date=2010-02-27|publisher=Hamilton Scores|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120310185940/http://www.hamiltonscores.com/2010/02/27/ryan-ellis-adds-golden-horseshoe-honour-to-winning-year/|archive-date=2012-03-10|url-status=dead}}</ref>
==Career statistics== ===Regular season and playoffs=== {| border="0" cellpadding="1" cellspacing="0" style="text-align:center; width:60em" |- bgcolor="#e0e0e0" ! colspan="3" bgcolor="#ffffff" | ! rowspan="99" bgcolor="#ffffff" | ! colspan="5" | Regular season ! rowspan="99" bgcolor="#ffffff" | ! colspan="5" | Playoffs |- bgcolor="#e0e0e0" ! Season ! Team ! League ! GP ! G ! A ! Pts ! PIM ! GP ! G ! A ! Pts ! PIM |- | 2006–07||Cambridge WinterHawks AAA||AH U16||75||37||56||93||151||—||—||—||—||— |- style="background:#f0f0f0;" | 2007–08||Windsor Spitfires||OHL||63||15||48||63||51||5||2||3||5||2 |- | 2008–09||Windsor Spitfires||OHL||57||22||67||89||57||20||8||23||31||20 |- style="background:#f0f0f0;" | 2009–10||Windsor Spitfires||OHL||48||12||49||61||38||19||3||30||33||14 |- | 2010–11||Windsor Spitfires||OHL||58||24||77||101||61||18||6||13||19||12 |- style="background:#f0f0f0;" | 2010–11||Milwaukee Admirals||AHL||—||—||—||—||—||7||1||1||2||2 |- | 2011–12||Milwaukee Admirals||AHL||29||4||14||18||8||—||—||—||—||— |- style="background:#f0f0f0;" | 2011–12||Nashville Predators||NHL||32||3||8||11||4||3||0||0||0||0 |- | 2012–13||Milwaukee Admirals||AHL||32||5||9||14||18||4||0||0||0||0 |- style="background:#f0f0f0;" | 2012–13||Nashville Predators||NHL||32||2||4||6||15||—||—||—||—||— |- | 2013–14||Nashville Predators||NHL||80||6||21||27||24||—||—||—||—||— |- style="background:#f0f0f0;" | 2014–15||Nashville Predators||NHL||58||9||18||27||27||6||0||3||3||2 |- | 2015–16||Nashville Predators||NHL||79||10||22||32||35||14||0||6||6||4 |- style="background:#f0f0f0;" | 2016–17||Nashville Predators||NHL||71||16||22||38||29||22||5||8||13||12 |- | 2017–18||Nashville Predators||NHL||44||9||23||32||6||13||0||5||5||8 |- style="background:#f0f0f0;" | 2018–19||Nashville Predators||NHL||82||7||34||41||20||6||0||3||3||0 |- | 2019–20||Nashville Predators||NHL||49||8||30||38||19||4||1||2||3||2 |- style="background:#f0f0f0;" | 2020–21||Nashville Predators||NHL||35||5||13||18||10||6||1||4||5||2 |- | 2021–22||Philadelphia Flyers||NHL||4||1||4||5||0||—||—||—||—||— |- bgcolor="#e0e0e0" ! colspan="3"|NHL totals ! 566 ! 76 ! 199 ! 275 ! 189 ! 74 ! 7 ! 31 ! 38 ! 30 |}
===International=== {| border="0" cellpadding="1" cellspacing="0" ID="Table3" style="text-align:center; width:40em" |- ALIGN="centre" bgcolor="#e0e0e0" ! Year ! Team ! Event ! Result ! rowspan="99" bgcolor="#ffffff" | ! GP ! G ! A ! Pts ! PIM |- | 2008 | Canada Ontario | U17 | {{gold1}} | 6 | 1 | 8 | 9 | 8 |- bgcolor="#f0f0f0" | 2008 | Canada | WJC18 | {{gold1}} | 7 | 3 | 4 | 7 | 0 |- | 2009 | Canada | WJC | {{gold1}} | 6 | 1 | 6 | 7 | 0 |- bgcolor="#f0f0f0" | 2010 | Canada | WJC | {{silver2}} | 6 | 1 | 7 | 8 | 2 |- | 2011 | Canada | WJC | {{silver2}} | 7 | 3 | 7 | 10 | 10 |- bgcolor="#f0f0f0" | 2014 | Canada | WC | 5th | 8 | 1 | 4 | 5 | 0 |- | 2016 | Canada | WC | {{gold1}} | 5 | 1 | 1 | 2 | 0 |- bgcolor="#e0e0e0" ! colspan="4"|Junior totals ! 32 ! 9 ! 32 ! 41 ! 20 |- bgcolor="#e0e0e0" ! colspan="4"|Senior totals ! 13 ! 2 ! 5 ! 7 ! 0 |}
==Awards and honours== ===Junior=== {| class="wikitable" |- ! Award ! Year ! Ref |- | CHL Defenceman of the Year || 2011 || |- | CHL Player of the Year || 2011 || |- | OHL All-Rookie Team || 2008 || <ref name=tsn/> |- | CHL All-Rookie Team || 2008 || <ref name=tsn/> |- | Bobby Smith Trophy <small>(OHL Scholastic Player of the Year)</small> || 2008 || <ref name=tsn/> |- | OHL First All-Star Team || 2009 || <ref name=tsn/> |- | Max Kaminsky Trophy <small>(OHL Defenceman of the Year)</small> || 2009, 2011 || <ref name=max/> |- | Memorial Cup All-Star Team || 2009 || <ref name=tsn/> |- | Mickey Renaud Captain's Trophy || 2011 || |- | OHL First All-Star Team || 2011 || |- | OHL Second All-Star Team || 2010 || <ref name=tsn/> |- | OHL Defenceman of the Month || October 2008, February 2009, <br/> March 2009 and November 2010 || <ref name=max/><ref name=oct08/><ref name=feb09/> |- | OHL Player of the Week || November 4, 2008, <br/> and April 20, 2009 || <ref name="pow nov08"/><ref name="pow apr09"/> |- | Red Tilson Trophy || 2011 || |}
===International=== {| class="wikitable" |- ! Award ! Year ! Ref |- | World U17 Tournament All-Star Team || 2008 || <ref name=u17/> |- | World Junior Championship All-Star Team || 2011 || <ref name="best d"/> |- | World Junior Championships Best Defenceman || 2011 || <ref name="wjc allstar"/> |- |WJC All-Decade Team |2019 |<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.iihf.com/en/events/2020/wm20/news/16925/the-world-junior-all-decade-team|title=IIHF - The World Junior All-Decade Team|language=en|work=IIHF|access-date=2019-12-28}}</ref> |}
==Records== *Windsor Spitfires' all-time leading point-scorer, defencemen <small>(surpassed Joel Quenneville, 229 points)</small>;<ref name=quenneville/> *World Junior Championships' all-time leading point-scorer, defencemen – 25 <small>(surpassed Reijo Ruotsalainen, 21 points)</small>;<ref name=dscoring/> *Canadian national junior team's all-time leading assist-scorer – 20 <small>(surpassed Eric Lindros, 19 assists)</small>.<ref name="canada assists"/>
==Notes== {{Reflist|group=notes}}
==References== {{Reflist|30em}}
==External links== {{Commons category|Ryan Ellis}} * {{Ice hockey stats}} *[https://web.archive.org/web/20090302135301/http://www.ontariohockeyleague.com/stats/player.php?id=4892 Ryan Ellis' OHL Profile]
{{s-start}} {{s-ach}} {{succession box|before = Alex Pietrangelo|title= World Junior Best Defenceman|years = 2011|after =Brandon Gormley}} {{succession box|before = Drew Doughty|title = Max Kaminsky Trophy|years = 2009|after = Jake Muzzin}} {{succession box|before = Jake Muzzin|title = Max Kaminsky Trophy|years = 2011|after = ''Incumbent''}} {{succession box|before = Steven Stamkos|title= Bobby Smith Trophy|years = 2008|after = Matt Duchene}} {{succession box|before = Chet Pickard|title = Nashville Predators first-round draft pick|years = 2009|after = Austin Watson}} {{S-sports}} {{succession box|before = Patrice Cormier|title = Canadian national junior team captain|years = 2011|after = Jaden Schwartz}} {{s-end}}
{{DEFAULTSORT:Ellis, Ryan}} Category:1991 births Category:Canadian ice hockey defencemen Category:Living people Category:Milwaukee Admirals players Category:Nashville Predators draft picks Category:Nashville Predators players Category:Canadian expatriate ice hockey players in the United States Category:NHL first-round draft picks Category:Philadelphia Flyers players Category:Ice hockey people from Hamilton, Ontario Category:Windsor Spitfires players Category:21st-century Canadian sportsmen