Ryker Evans on improvements going into second game with Anaheim 11.27.24 Seattle Kraken defenseman Ryker Evans made his return to practice today in a non-contact jersey. The 23-year-old defenseman has been out of the lineup since Jan. 28, missing two games since then. Evans is enjoying a breakout campaign. In his abbreviated rookie season, Evans recorded a goal and nine points in 36 games but this season, he's playing every night and accumulating big minutes in the process. He's averaging over 20:00 of ice time, scoring five goals and 21 points in 50 games. He stepped up in a major way when Vince Dunn went down with his long-term injury and has now formed a solid partnership with Brandon Montour. Evans likely won't be in the lineup tomorrow when the Kraken host the Detroit Red Wings unless he practices with contract before the game and feels 100%. A more likely return date for Evans is on Thursday against the Toronto Maple Leafs. With Evans on the shelf, Cale Fleury has been in the lineup to replace him. He's done a serviceable job, picking up a +2 rating and skating in a season-high 14:10 against the San Jose Sharks. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Image [https://thehockeynews.com/.image/c_fit,h_600,w_600/MjEyMTYyMjMxODQ3MTAyNDQw/google-news.svg] Stay updated with the most interesting Kraken stories, analysis, breaking news and more! Tap the star to add us to your favourites on Google News [https://news.google.com/publications/CAAqBwgKMK-q0gsw7sXpAw/sections/CAQqEAgAKgcICjCvqtILMO7F6QMwrODfCA?hl=en-CA&gl=CA&ceid=CA%3Aen] to never miss a story.
