Veteran defenseman Ryan Suter is set to reach an incredible milestone in his career, as he will play in his 1,500th NHL game tonight when the St. Louis Blues take on the Chicago Blackhawks. The 38-year-old blue liner, who has been a mainstay in the league for nearly two decades, will become just the 22nd player in NHL history to reach the 1,500-game mark.
Originally drafted seventh overall by the Nashville Predators in the 2003 NHL Draft, Suter made his NHL debut in the 2005-06 season. Over the years, he has established himself as one of the most durable and reliable defensemen in the league.
After spending seven seasons with the Predators, Suter signed a 13-year, $98 million blockbuster contract with the Minnesota Wild in 2012, where he spent nine seasons before joining having the remainder of his contract bought out in 2021.
Throughout his career, Suter has been known for his exceptional hockey IQ, steady defensive play, and ability to log heavy minutes. He has consistently played a top-four role for every team he has suited up for, often leading his team in ice time. His ability to control the pace of play and contribute offensively while maintaining strong defensive positioning has made him a valuable asset throughout his career.
Reaching 1,500 games is just one of many accomplishments on Suter’s impressive resume. Over his career, he has recorded 691 points (106 goals, 585 assists), making him one of the most productive defensemen of his generation.
He has also represented the United States in multiple international tournaments, including the Olympics and the World Cup of Hockey, further cementing his status as a leader in American hockey.
Suter has been a model of consistency, rarely missing games due to injury and maintaining a high level of play deep into his 30s. His ability to adapt his game as the NHL has evolved speaks to his intelligence and work ethic. Even as younger, faster players enter the league, Suter continues to be a stabilizing presence on the blue line.
It is fitting that Suter’s milestone game comes against the Chicago Blackhawks, a team he suit up against for the 90th regular season matchup in his career. His battles with Chicago date back to his early days in Nashville and continued during his tenure with the Wild, where the two teams had intense playoff matchups. Now, as he reaches this historic benchmark, he will once again take the ice against a longtime rival.