NHL Players from Richmond, BC: Local Hockey Talent That Made It to the NHL
Richmond may not be the largest city in Canada, but when it comes to developing hockey talent, it has quietly built an impressive legacy. Over the years, several players who grew up here — or developed their game in our local programs — have gone on to play in the NHL. For a city of just over 200,000 residents, that’s something worth recognizing.
Here’s a closer look at five NHL players with Richmond roots, plus one future star who could be next.
Troy Stecher
Troy Stecher is perhaps the most recognizable name on this list. Raised in Richmond, he started playing hockey at just six years old and developed through local minor hockey programs. He attended Diefenbaker Elementary and later trained through Delta Secondary’s Hockey Academy before advancing to the BCHL and then the NCAA with the University of North Dakota.
Stecher made his NHL debut on October 24, 2016, with the Vancouver Canucks — a milestone moment not just for him, but for the Richmond hockey community. Since then, he has played for several NHL teams including Detroit, Los Angeles, Arizona, Calgary, Edmonton, and Toronto. He also earned a gold medal with Team Canada at the 2021 World Championships. His journey shows what’s possible when local development meets dedication and opportunity.
Ray Sawada
Ray Sawada was born and raised in Richmond and developed through local hockey before being drafted 52nd overall by the Dallas Stars. He played in the NHL during the 2009–2010 season and spent several years in the American Hockey League before retiring from professional hockey in 2016.
After his playing career, Sawada became a firefighter in 2020. Tragically, in October 2023, he passed away at just 38 years old after suffering cardiac arrest while playing hockey in Richmond. His jersey has since been retired by the Richmond Sockeyes and now hangs in the rafters — a lasting tribute to his impact both on and off the ice.
Glenn Gawdin
Glenn Gawdin also grew up in Richmond and played minor hockey with the Richmond Blues. He was drafted 160th overall in 2015 by the St. Louis Blues, becoming one of the few NHL-drafted players to come through the local development system in recent years. Gawdin later played within the Calgary and Anaheim organizations and represented Canada internationally, earning a bronze medal at the U18 World Championships and WHL Playoff MVP honors in 2018.
Karl Alzner
Karl Alzner spent time playing hockey in Richmond and was part of the Richmond Sockeyes during his junior career. He went on to play more than 500 NHL games with the Washington Capitals and later the Montreal Canadiens. Known as a steady and reliable defenseman, Alzner represents another strong example of local development translating to professional success.
Danton Heinen
Danton Heinen also has Richmond hockey roots and developed locally before moving on to junior and professional hockey. Over the course of his career, he has played for the Boston Bruins, Anaheim Ducks, Pittsburgh Penguins, and Vancouver Canucks. His continued presence in professional hockey further reinforces Richmond’s connection to the NHL.
A Future Name to Watch: Ryan Lin
The next generation is already emerging. Born in 2008, Ryan Lin developed locally, spent time with the Richmond Sockeyes, and attended Delta Hockey Academy. He now plays for the Vancouver Giants in the WHL and is projected as a potential top NHL Draft pick. If that trajectory continues, Richmond could soon add another NHL name to its list.
Richmond’s hockey story is built on strong minor programs, committed coaches, and a community that values sport and development. From local rinks to NHL arenas, the pathway is real — and these players are proof of what can grow out of our city.
As hockey continues to thrive here, it’s safe to say Richmond’s contribution to the game isn’t finished yet.
