Ryan Suter awaits a contract decision with the NHL season approaching

How come a person like Ryan Suter, one of the most reliable defensemen of the NHL in the last 20 years, still finds himself without a new contract? At 40 years of age, the veteran defenseman has yet not indicate retirement but is in no hurry to pledge himself to any team.

Instead, Suter is happy to wait, almost making people curious and keeping analysts wondering whether he will strap on the skates once more or quietly close the book on an illustrious career.

Ryan Suter’s approach to free agency and plans

According to Pierre LeBrun of The Athletic, Suter has told his longtime agent, Neil Sheehy, not to hit up teams actively. The game plan is that if a team shows up with some interest, then they listen; otherwise, they don't go pushing for the deal.

Such a patient perspective comes from a player who has made peace with his career but is open to one last chance if the right contender comes forward.

In the 2022-23 season, he signed with the St. Louis Blues on a league-minimum contract and played all 82 games, scoring two goals for 15 points. While no longer in his prime on the blue line, his consistency and leadership made him a valuable presence. For a team seeking veteran stability on the blue line, Suter could still be a meaningful addition.

Ryan Suter’s long career and lasting legacy in the NHL

The resume of Suter is chock-full of milestones. Drafted seventh overall in the 2003 NHL Entry Draft by the Nashville Predators, he has spent 20 seasons playing for Nashville, Minnesota, Dallas, and St. Louis. He has played over 1,500 NHL games in his career, represented Team USA in the Olympics, and was a near-win of the Norris trophy in the 2012-2013 season, finishing second in voting.While a Stanley Cup has never graced his record, his career speaks of international gold medals and respect for having durability, professionalism, and a high hockey IQ.

Rarely has a modern-day NHL defenseman combined the level of longevity and consistency that Suter maintained. Also Read: Mikael Backlund signs 2-year extension with Calgary FlamesRyan Suter's future still remains unsure, but there is something about his approach that screams confidence and patience. Whether a new contract is inked or not, the Suter name has forever graced the list of the most trusted names in NHL defense.