Riley Sheahan, a Canadian professional ice hockey player, embarked on his NHL journey after being selected 21st overall by the Detroit Red Wings in the 2010 NHL Entry Draft. Born on December 7, 1991, in St. Catharines, Ontario, Sheahan honed his skills at the University of Notre Dame, where he played college hockey for the Fighting Irish. His time at Notre Dame helped him develop into a promising center, known for his defensive capabilities and faceoff proficiency.
Sheahan made his NHL debut with the Detroit Red Wings during the 2011-2012 season, but it wasn't until the 2013-2014 season that he became a regular fixture in the lineup. During his tenure with the Red Wings, Sheahan was often utilized in a third or fourth-line center role, where he contributed both offensively and defensively. His best season with Detroit came in 2014-2015 when he recorded 13 goals and 23 assists for a total of 36 points.
In October 2017, Sheahan was traded to the Pittsburgh Penguins, where he continued to play a similar role as a depth center. His time with the Penguins saw him adapt to a team with a strong offensive core, and he provided valuable minutes on the penalty kill. During the 2017-2018 season, Sheahan scored 11 goals and added 21 assists, showcasing his ability to contribute to a high-powered offense.
Sheahan's journey in the NHL also included stints with several other teams. In February 2019, he was traded to the Florida Panthers, where he finished the season. The following season, he signed with the Edmonton Oilers, where he played 66 games and was a reliable presence in the faceoff circle and on the penalty kill.
Continuing his career, Sheahan signed with the Buffalo Sabres for the 2020-2021 season. His role with the Sabres was consistent with his previous teams, providing depth and experience to a young roster. After his time in Buffalo, Sheahan returned to the Seattle Kraken, having been part of their inaugural roster in the 2021-2022 season. His veteran presence was valuable to the expansion team as they navigated their first season in the NHL.
Throughout his career, Sheahan was known for his defensive acumen and ability to play in various forward roles. While not a prolific scorer, his contributions were often seen in his defensive play and special teams work. Over the course of his NHL career, Sheahan played over 600 games, demonstrating his reliability and adaptability across multiple teams.
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