Suzuki aiming to join brother Nick as first-round 2019 draft pick
Ryan Suzuki isn’t shy when the chance to chirp his older brother Nick comes his way. That’s how it’s been since they were kids playing ministick hockey and video games in their family home. Ryan, who plays for the Ontario Hockey League’s Barrie Colts, is expected to be a high first-round pick in the upcoming NHL draft two years after Nick went 13th overall to the Vegas Golden Knights in 2017. If Ryan hears his named called earlier than his brother’s was, he’ll use that as ammunition when training with Nick in the off-season.
“I’m not going rub it in his face, but I’d definitely have that over him,” Ryan said. “If I got mad at him I’d bring it up.”
Nick produced 45 goals and 96 points in 65 games in his draft year playing for the OHL’s Owen Sound Attack, then followed it up last season with 42 goals and 100 points in 64 games.
“He’s a guy I look up to and I definitely want to pass his point mark,” said Ryan. “That’s the goal.”
Ryan is well on his way in his sophomore year. The 17-year-old has four goals and 18 points in 10 games to start the 2018-19 season.
“I check up on his stats, I think he’s well on his way for sure,” said 19-year-old Nick, who has five goals and 11 points in eight games to begin his fourth season with the Attack.
“I knew growing up that he was going to be a really good player (but) I didn’t know he was going to be this good right now. I think he has great things ahead of him.”